BX7795.H5  A3  1832 

Hicks,  Eiias,  1748-1830. 

Journal  of  the  life  and  religious  labours  of. 

Hicks/ 


Digitized  by  tlie  Internet  Arcliive 
in  2015 


https://arcliive.org/details/journalofliferel00liick_1 


JOURNAL 


OF  THE 


LIFE    AND    RELIGIOUS  LABOURS 
4 


OF 


ELIAS  HICKS 


WRITTEN  BY  HIMSELF. 


NEW-YORK; 
PUBLISHED  BY  ISAAC  T.  HOPPER. 
1832. 


"  Entered  according  to  the  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1833,  by  Valentine 
Hicks,  and  Robert  Seaman,  in  the  Office  of  Uie  Clerk  of  the  Southern  DioLrict  of 
New-York." 


PUBLISHED  FOR  THE  PROPRIETORS. 


NEW-YORK: 
STEREOTYPED  BY  REES  &  REDFIELD. 

No  216  WiUiam-streeU 


Ludwig  &  Tolefrce,  Priuter?,  Corner  of  Greenwich  &  Vcsey  sta.  N.  Y. 


PREFACE. 


Among  the  papers  which  were  left  by  Ehas  Hicks,  there  were 
several  manuscripts,  written  by  himself,  containing  many  par- 
ticulars respecting  his  life  and  rehgious  engagements.  His  con- 
nexions have  collected  these  Memoirs,  and  now  present  them  to 
the  notice  of  the  public.  In  performing  this  office,  they  believe 
that  they  will  be  rendering  an  acceptable  and  useful  service  to 
his  survivors.  To  those  who  were  personally  acquainted  with 
him,  it  will  be  interesting  to  review  this  brief  record  of  his  long 
and  usefiil  hfe ;  and  to  all,  it  may  be  animating  and  instructive 
to  contemplate  the  feelings  and  experience  of  an  individual,  who, 
it  will  be  seen,  was,  in  his  retired  moments,  as  feiTent  in  his 
aspirations  for  purity  and  humility  of  heart,  as  he  was  faithftd 
and  diligent  in  his  public  labours  for  the  promotion  of  truth  and 
righteousness  in  the  earth. 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER  I. 

Birth,  1748.  Early  visitations  of  Divine  grace.  Apprenticeship.  Trials 
and  temptations.  Marriage,  1771.  Renewed  visitiitions  of  Divine  love. 
Appearance  in  the  Ministry.  Situation  of  Friends  during  the  war. 
Journey  to  Philadelphia,  1779.  Visit  to  Friends  on  the  Main,  1781. 
lUness,  1781.    Visit  on  Long  Island,  1782.    Visit  to  the  meetings  on  the 


Main,  1782.  -  7 

CHAPTER  II. 

Visit  to  Nine  Partners,  1783.  Visit  on  Long  Island,  1784.  Visit  to  New- 
York  and  Staten  Island,  1790.  Visit  to  Vermont,  1790.  Visit  on  Long 
Island,  1791.  General  visit  to  Friends  of  New -York  yearly  meeting,  1791. 
Visit  to  the  meetings  of  Ministers  and  Elders,  1792.  Visit  to  Friends  in 
New-England  and  Vennont,  1793.  --  25 

CHAPTER  III. 

Visit  to  the  meetings  of  Ministers  and  Elders,  1795.  Visit  to  Friends  in 
Pennsylvania,  New  Jersey,  Delaware,  Maryland,  and  Virginia,  1798.  -  54 

CHAPTER  IV. 

Visit  to  Connecticut,  1799.  Visit  to  Oblong  and  Nine  Partners,  1800.  Visit 
on  Long  Island,  1800  Visit  to  Friends  in  New  Jersey,  and  Pennsylva- 
nia, 1801.  82 


CHAPTER  V. 

Visit  to  Friends  in  Canada,  and  some  of  the  nortliern  parts  of  the  yearly 
meeting  of  New- York,  1803.  Visit  on  Long  Island,  Staten  Island,  and 
New-York,  1806.  Visit  to  Purchase,  Nine  Partner.s,  and  Stanford,  and 
some  adjacent  parts,  1806.  Visit  to  Nine  Partners,  1807.  Visit  to  Pur- 
chase, Nine  Partners,  and  Stanford,  1808.  Visit  to  the  subordinate  meet- 
ings, 1808.    Visit  to  Purchase,  1809.    Visits  on  Long  Island,  1812  and 


1813.    Visit  to  Purchase  in  1813.  106 

CHAPTER  VL 

Engagements  at  and  about  home,  1813.    Visit  to  Friends  in  the  middle  and 

southern  States,  1813.  132 

CHAPTER  VII. 

Engagements  at  and  about  home,  1813  and  1814.     -----  159 
CHAPTER  VIIT. 

Visit  to  Purchase,  and  engagements  at  and  about  home,  1814.  -      -      -  184 


6 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER  IX. 

Visit  to  families  of  Friends  in  New-York,  and  engagements  at  and  about 
home,  1815.  206 

CHAPTER  X. 

Engagements  at  and  about  home,  1815.    Visit  to  the  monthly  meetings 
within  the  circuit  of  Nine  Partners  quarterly  meeting,  1815.         -      -  229 

CHAPTER  XI. 

General  visit  to  Friends  in  New  England,  1816.  ....  253 

CHAPTER  XII. 

Engagements  at  and  about  home,  and  within  Westbury  quarterly  meeting, 
1816  and  1817.  273 

CHAPTER  XIII. 
Engagements  at  and  near  home,  1817.    Visit  to  some  parts  of  the  yearly 
meetings  of  Philadelphia  and  Baltimore,  1817.     .      -      -      .      -  294 

CHAPTER  XIV. 


Engagements  at  and  near  home,  and  within  the  limits  of  Westbury  quarterly 
meeting.    Visit  to  some  parts  of  tlie  yearly  meeting  of  New-York,  I81tf.  322 

CHAPTER  XV. 

General  visit  to  Friends  of  the  yearly  meeting  of  New-York,  1819.  -      -  355 
CHAPTER  XVI. 

Journey  to  Ohio  in  1819.  Visit  to  the  neighbouring  inhabitants  in  1819. 
Visit  to  Farmington  and  Duanesburgh  quarterly  meetings  in  1820. 
Visit  to  some  parts  of  Pennsylvania,  and  to  Baltimore,  in  1822.  Visit 
to  some  of  the  lower  quarterly  meetings  in  1823.      -      -      -      .  373 

CHAPTER  XVII. 
Visit  to  Baltimore  to  attend  the  yearly  meeting  in  182-1.    Visit  to  the 
inhabitants  of  the  eastern  part  of  Long  Island  in  1825.    Visit  to  Scipio 
quarterly  meeting  in  1825.    Visit  to  Southern  and  Concord  quarterly 
meetings  in  Pennsylvania  in  1826.    Visit  to  the  families  of  Friends  in 


Jericho  and  Westbury  monthly  meetings  in  1827.    Visit  to  Friends  in 
some  parts  of  New  Jersey,  Pennsylvania  and  Ohio  in  1828.  -      -      .  396 

CHAPTER  XVIII. 
Continuation  of  his  visit  to  Friends  in  some  parts  of  Ohio,  Indiana,  Mary- 
land, Pennsylvania  and  New  Jersey  in  1828.   Decease  of  his  wife  in  1829. 
Visit  to  Friends  in  the  yearly  meeting  of  New- York  in  1829.        -      -  411 

APPENDIX. 

LettertoHugh  Judge  in  1830.   439 

His  decease  in  1830.    Memorial  of  the  monthly  meeting  of  Jericho  in 
1830.  444 


JOURNAL  OP 


ELI  AS  fllCKS. 


CHAPTER  L 

Bij-tli,  1748. — Early  visitations  of  Divine  grace. — Appronticcsliip. — Trials  and 
temptations. — Marriage,  1771. — Renewed  visitations  of  Divine  love. — Appear- 
ance in  the  Ministry. — Situation  of  Friends  during  tlie  war. — Journey  to 
Philadelphia,  1779. — Visit  to  Friends  on  the  Main,  1781. — Illness,  1781. — 
Visit  on  Long  Island,  1782. — Visit  to  the  Meetings  on  the  Main,  1783. 

Having  experienced  many  mercies  and  preservations,  both 
spiiitual  and  temporal,  in  passing  througli  this  probationary  state, 
I  am  induced  to  record  some  little  account  of  them,  under  a  sense 
of  humble  gratitude  to  my  gracious  and  merciful  Creator  and 
Preserver. 

I  was  born  on  the  19th  day  of  the  third  month,  1748,  in  the 
township  of  Hempstead,  in  Q,ueens  county,  on  Long  Island. 
My  parents,  John  and  Martha  Hicks,  were  descended  from 
reputable  families,  and  sustained  a  good  character  among  their 
friends  and  those  who  knew  them.  My  father  was  a  grandson 
of  Thomas  Hicks,  of  whom  our  worthy  friend  Samuel  Bownas 
makes  honourable  mention  in  his  journal,  and  by  whom  he  was 
much  comforted  and  strengthened,  when  imprisoned  through  the 
envy  of  George  Keith,  at  Jamaica,  on  Long  Island.  Neither  of 
my  parents  were  members  in  strict  fellowship  with  any  rehgious 
society,  until  some  little  time  before  my  birth.  My  father  was  at 
that  period  united  in  membership  with  Friends  ;  but  as  his  resi- 
dence was  mostly  at  some  distance  from  meeting,  and  in  a  neigh- 
bourhood where  very  few  Friends  lived,  my  associates,  when 
young,  were  chiefly  among  those  of  other  religious  persuasions, 
or,  what  was  still  worse  for  me,  among  those  who  made  no  pro- 


8 


JOURNAL  OP 


fession  of  leligion  at  all.  This  exposed  me  to  much  temptation; 
and  though  I  early  felt  the  operation  of  divine  grace,  checking 
and  reproving  me  for  my  lightness  and  vanity,  yet  being  of  a 
lively  active  spirit,  and  ambitious  of  excelling  in  my  play  and 
diversions,  I  sometunes  exceeded  the  bounds  of  true  moderation, 
for  which  I  often  felt  close  conviction  and  fears  on  my  piUow  in 
the  night  season. 

.  When  I  was  about  eight  years  old,  rriy  father  removed  his 
habitation  and  settled  on  a  farm  which  liis  father  had  left  liim, 
on  the  south  side  of  the  island,  near  the  sea  shore.  This  intro- 
duced a  new  scene  of  diversion  to  my  active  mind,  which  was 
prone  to  pleasure  and  self-gratification.  The  shore  abounded 
with  fish  and  wUd  fowl,  and  I  soon  began  to  occupy  myself  with 
anghng  for  the  former,  and  shooting  the  latter.  Tliese  amuse- 
ments gained  an  ascendency  m  my  mind,  and  although  they 
were  diversions  for  which  !  felt  condemnation  at  later  periods, 
yet  I  am  led  to  believe  that  they  were,  at  this  time,  profitable  to 
me  in  my  exposed  condition,  as  they  had  a  tendency  to  keep  me 
more  at  and  about  home,  and  often  prevented  my  joining  with 
loose  company,  which  I  had  frequent  opportunities  of  doing 
without  my  father's  knowledge.  My  mother  was  removed  by 
death  when  I  was  about  eleven  years  of  age,  and  my  father  was 
left  with  the  care  of  six  cliildren,  three  older,  and  two  younger, 
than  myself ;  and  although  he  endeavoured  to  keep  his  children 
witliin  the  hmits  of  truth,  yet  opjx)rtvmities  sometimes  occurred  to 
join  with  vam  companions.  But  the  Lord  was  graciously  near 
to  my  poor  soul  in  my  tender  years ;  and  he  followed  me  with 
his  reproofs,  and  his  dread  made  me  afiaid. 

When  I  was  about  thirteen  years  of  age,  I  was  placed  with  one 
of  my  elder  brothers  who  was  married,  and  hvcd  at  some  dis- 
tance from  my  father's  residence.  I  was  here  without  any  parental 
restraint ;  and  mixing  -with  gay  associates,  I  lost  much  of  my 
youthful  innocence,  and  was  led  wide  from  the  salutary  path  of 
true  religion,  learning  to  sing  vain  songs,  and  to  take  delight  in 
running  horses.  Yet  I  did  not  give  way  to  any  thing  which 
was  commonly  accounted  (lisreputal)le,  having  always  a  regard  to 
strict  honesty,  and  to  such  a  hue  of  conduct  as  comported  with 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


9 


politeness  and  good  breeding.  Nevertheless,  I  became  considerably 
hardened  in  vanity,  and  on  several  occasions  in  riding  races  was 
exposed  to  great  danger ;  and  had  it  not  been  for  the  providen- 
tial care  of  my  heaveidy  father,  my  life  would  have  fallen  a 
sacrifice  to  my  folly  and  indiscretion.  O  my  soul,  what  wilt,  or 
canst  thou  render  unto  the  Lord  for  all  his  benefits,  for  his  mer- 
cies are  new  every  morning  ! 

About  the  se\  entecnth  year  of  my  age,  I  was  put  an  apprentice 
to  learn  the  trade  of  a  house  carpenter  and  joiner,  and  this  by  no 
means  placed  me  in  a  more  favourable  situation  than  before ;  for 
my  master,  although  considered  an  orderly  man,  and  one  who 
frequently  attended  Friends'  meetings,  was  yet  in  an  eager  pur- 
suit after  temporal  riches,  and  was  of  but  little  use  to  me  in  my 
religious  improvement.  We  had  to  go  from  place  to  place,  as 
our  business  called,  to  attend  to  our  work,  and  I  was  thereby 
introduced  mto  hurt  fid  company,  and  learned  to  dance  and  to 
pursue  other  frivolous  and  vain  amusements.  During  my  ap- 
prenticeship I  passed  through  many  trials  and  much  exposure ; 
and  I  have  often  thought,  that  had  it  not  been  for  the  intei-position 
of  divine  mercy  and  goodness,  I  should  have  fallen  a  prey  to  the 
varied  temptations  which  surrounded  me ;  for  although  I  was 
overtaken  in  many  faults,  in  which  my  poor  soul  was  deeply 
wounded,  and  for  wliich  I  afterwards  felt  the  just  indignation  of 
an  offended  God,  yet  when  I  have  looked  back  on  this  scene  of 
my  life,  and  recounted  the  many  snares  that  I  escaped,  all  that  is 
truly  sensible  within  me  has  been  bowed  in  humble  admiration 
of  the  Lord's  mercies  and  deliverance  ;  and  in  reverent  gratitude, 
I  was  made  to  praise  and  magnify  his  great  and  adorable  name, 
"who  is  over  all,  God  blessed  for  ever."  In  the  midst  of  my  vanity 
and  exposure,  the  Lord,  as  a  gracious  father,  was  often  near ;  and 
when  I  was  alone,  he  inclined  my  mind  to  sohd  meditations. — 
Some  of  my  leisure  hours  were  occupied  in  reading  the  Scrip- 
tures, in  which  I  took  considerable  deUglit,  and  it  tended  to  my 
real  profit  and  religious  improvement. 

My  youthful  companions  woidd  often  endeavour  to  persuade 
me  and  each  other,  that  the  amusements,  in  w  Inch  we  spent 
much  of  our  precious  lime,  were  innocent ;  yet  being  very  early 

2 


10 


JOURNAL  OP 


convinced  by  the  divine  light  that  its  teacliings  were  truth,  it  had, 
in  my  calmer  moments,  an  ascendency  in  my  mind  over  all  the 
reasonings  and  persuasions  of  men.  Nevertheless,  I  had  such  a 
proneness  to  levity  and  self-gratification,  that  I  often  ran  counter 
to  clear  conviction,  and  went  on  for  a  considerable  time,  sinning 
and  repenting  ;  for  the  Lord  in  great  mercy  had  regard  to  me 
in  my  tried  condition,  and  ofteii  opened  a  door  of  reconciliation  to 
my  poor  soul.  But  I  was  too  weak  to  keep  my  covenants  in  the 
midst  of  so  many  temptations,  until  by  his  righteous  judgments, 
mixed  with  adorable  mercy,  he  opened  to  my  mind,  in  a  very 
clear  manner,  the  danger  I  was  in  of  falling  into  eternal  ruin. 

Under  the  weight  of  this  impression,  my  heart,  m  the  midst  of 
merriment,  was  often  made  very  sad  ;  and  while  engaged  in  the 
dance  my  soul  was  deeply  sensible  of  its  evil  and  folly  :  even  my 
reasoning  powers,  when  thus  enlightened  by  the  clear  evidence 
of  divine  light,  were  made  to  loathe  it  as  a  senseless  and  insipid 
pursuit,  and  utterly  unworthy  of  a  rational  being.  But  although 
I  formed  resolutions  to  refrain  from  this  evil  and  others  of  a  Uke 
nature,  yet  it  was  difficult  to  resist  the  importunities  of  my  com- 
panions ;  and  I  found  by  experience,  that  if  I  would  altogether 
cease  from  them,  I  must  wholly  withdraw  from  the  company  of 
those  who  were  inchned  to  such  pursuits.  On  the  last  occasion 
that  I  was  present  at  a  dance,  and  in  which  I  Avas  pressed  to 
take  a  part,  I  was  brought  under  great  concern  of  mind,  and 
was  struck  with  a  behef,  that  if  I  now  gave  way  after  forming 
so  many  resolutions,  and  should  again  rebel  against  the  light,  I 
might  be  left  m  an  obdurate  situation,  and  never  have  another 
offer  of  pardon.  I  also  clearly  saw  that  this  would  be  just,  and 
that  my  blood  would  be  upon  my  own  head  ;  and  feeling  the 
dread  of  the  Almighty  to  cover  me,  and  a  cry  raised  in  my  soul 
towards  him,  when  I  was  called  to  participate  in  the  dance,  it 
seemed  as  though  all  my  limbs  were  fettered,  and  I  sat  down 
and  informed  the  company  that  I  was  now  resolved  to  go  no 
further.  I  was  deeply  tried,  but  the-  Lord  was  graciously  near ; 
and  as  my  cry  was  secretly  to  him  for  strength,  he  enabled  me 
to  covenant  with  him,  that  if  he  would  be  pleased  in  mercy  to 
empower  me,  I  wovdd  for  ever"  cease  from  tliis  vain  and  sinful 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


11 


amusement ;  and  he  instructed  nie,  that  if  I  would  escape  the 
danger  of  another  trial,  1  must  keop  myself  separate  from  such 
companions  ;  and  blessed  for  ever  be  his  right  worthy  name,  in 
that  he  hath  enabled  me  to  keep  this  my  covenant  with  Jiim 
fiom  that  time  inviolate. 

In  looking  back  to  this  season  of  deep  probation,  my  soul  has 
been  deeply  humbled  ;  for  I  had  cause  to  believe  that  if  I  had 
withstood  at  this  time  the  merciful  interposition  of  divine  love, 
and  had  rebelled  agamst  this  clear  manifestation  of  the  Lord's 
will,  he  would  have  withdrawn  his  light  from  me,  and  my  por- 
tion would  have  been  among  the  wicked,  cast  out  for  ever  from 
the  favom  able  presence  of  my  judge.  I  should  also  for  ever  have 
been  obliged  to  acknowledge  his  mercy  and  justice,  and  acquit 
the  Lord  my  redeemer,  who  had  done  so  much  for  me  ;  for  \v\th. 
long-suffering  and  much  abused  mercy  he  had  waited  patiently 
for  my  return,  and  wovUd  have  gathered  me  before  that  time,  as 
I  well  knew,  as  a  hen  gathereth  her  chickens  under  her  wings, 
but  I  would  not.  Therefore  it  is  the  earnest  desire  of  my  spirit, 
that  the  youth,  and  others  whom  it  may  concern,  may  wisely 
ponder  their  waj^s,  and  not  think  that  the  frivolous  excuses  which 
those  make,  who  endeavour  to  jvistify  themselves  in  such  vain 
and  wicked  diversions,  by  saying  that  their  parents  judge  it 
innocent,  or  their  teachers  have  instructed  them  so  to  believe,  or 
that  imder  the  law  it  was  deemed  admissible,  will  stand  them  in 
any  stead  in  the  day  of  solemn  inquisition :  for  what  are  all  these 
carnal  reasonings  worth,  when  weighed  in  the  balance  of  the 
sanctuary,  against  one  single  conviction  of  the  divine  light  in 
the  secret  of  the  heart.  The  last  is  clear  and  self-evident ;  the 
others  are  mere  evasive  excuses :  and  I  often  reflect  with  sur- 
prise on  the  conduct  of  those  parents,  who  are  spending  their 
substance  in  hiring  idle  dancingmasters  to  teach  their  children 
this  unnatural  and  unchristian  practice,  and  who  plead  for  ex- 
cuse the  example  of  righteous  David.  But  how  unlike  is  their 
dancing  to  his,  who  did  it  only  in  worship  and  honour  to  his 
God,  and  in  conformity  with  the  outward  dispensation  under 
which  he  lived.  We  have,  however,  a  better  and  higher  exam- 
ple than  David,  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  is  the  mediator  of  a 


12 


JOURNAL  OF 


better  covenant ;  this  covenant  is  mward,  even  the  law  written 
upon  the  heart,  which  no  oiitAvard  example  of  others  can  ever 
abrogate  or  disannul ;  nor  do  his  doctrines  or  self-denying  exam- 
ple in  any  wise  approbate  or  justify  this  foohsh  and  idle  practice, 
but,  in  all  parts  thereof,  condemn  and  disapprove  it :  for  if  none 
can  be  his  disciples,  except  those  who  deny  themselves,  and  take 
up  their  cross  daily,  as  assuredly  no  others  can,  how  can  those 
be  acceptable  to  him  who  are  living  in  the  daily  gratification  of 
theii-  own  hcentious  wiUs,  and  spending  their  precious  time  and 
talents  in  such  fixutless  and  vain  sports. 

His  self-denying  apostles  also  have  left  us  neither  example  nor 
precept  in  justification  of  such  wanton  and  evil  amusements  ;  but 
,  we  are  exhorted  by  them  to  redeem  the  time,  because  the  days 
are  evil,  and  to  use  diligence  to  make  our  calling  and  election  sure, 
and  to  follow  them  as  they  followed  Clnist :  there  is  not  a  word 
of  learning  to  dance,  or  of  dancingmasters,  but  an  exhortation 
to  abstain  from  all  idle  and  vain  sports,  and  foolish'  talking  and 
jesting,  which  are  contrary  to  Christian  gravity,  and  to  the  self- 
denying  example  of  the  blessed  Jesus,  who,  when  personally  on 
earth,  was  a  man  of  sorrows  and  acquainted  with  grief ;  and, 
therefore,  the  house  of  mourning  is  recommended  to  all  who  are 
wise  in  heart,  for  it  is  the  fool's  heart  only  that  is  captivated  in 
the  house  of  mirth. 

My  apprenticeship  being  now  expired,  I  gradually  withdrew 
from  the  company  of  my  former  associates,  became  more  ac- 
quainted with  Friends,  and  was  more  frequent  in  my  attendance 
of  meetings  ;  and  although  this  was  in  some  degree  profitable  to 
me,  yet  I  made  but  slow  progress  in  my  religious  improvement, 
until  several  years  after  I  had  entered  into  a  married  state.  The 
occupation  of  part  of  my  time  in  fishing  and  fowling  had  fre- 
quently tended  to  preserve  me  from  faUing  into  liintful  associa- 
tions ;  but  through  the  rising  intunations  and  reproofs  of  divine 
grace  in  my  heart,  I  now  began  to  feel  that  the  manner  in  which 
I  sometimes  amused  myself  with  my  gun  was  not  without 
sin ;  for  although  I  mostly  preferred  going  alone,  and  while 
waiting  in  stillness  for  the  coming  of  the  fowl,  my  mind  was  at 
times  so  taken  up  iu  divine  meditations,  that  the  opportunities 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


13 


were  seasons  of  instmctioii  and  comfort  to  me ;  yet,  on  other 
OL-casion;?,  when  accompanied  by  i^ome  of  my  acquaintances,  and 
■when  no  fowls  appeared  whicli  would  be  useful  to  us  after  being 
obtained,  we  sometimes,  from  wantonniess  or  for  mere  diversion, 
would  destroy  the  small  birds  which  coidd  be  of  no  service  to  us. 
This  cruel  procedure  aHects  my  heart  while  penning  these  lines  ; 
but  my  gracious  Redeemer  was  dra,wing  my  mind  from  such 
low  amusements,  and  I  was  led  to  consider  conduct  like  this 
to  be  a  great  breach  of  trust,  and  an  infringemeiit  of  the  divine 
prerogative.    It  therefore  became  a  settled  principle  Avith  me,  not 
to  take  the  life  of  any  creature,  except  it  was  really  useful  and 
necessary  when  dead,  or  very  noxious  and  hurtful  when  living. 
And,  in  exercising  this  privilege,  we  ought  to  be  carefid  to  do  it 
in  the  most  mild  and  tender  manner  in  our  power ;  for  I  think 
every  candid  mind  must  be  convinced,  that  the  liberty  we  have 
for  taking  the  lives  of  other  creatmes,  and  using  their  bodies  to 
support  our  own,  is  certainly  an  vmmerited  favour,  and  ought  to  be 
received  by  us  as  the  bounty  of  our  great  benefactor,  and  be 
acknowledged  with  great  humility  and  gratitude. 

1  have  likewise  from  reflection,  founded  on  oljservation,  and 
from  the  nature  and  reason  of  things,  been  led  to  beUeve,  that  we 
frequently  err  by  the  liberty  we  take  in  destroying  what  we 
esteem  noxious  creatures  ;  and  not  only  abuse  the  power  given  us 
over  them  by  our  gr  eat  Creator,  but  likewise  act  very  contrary  to  our 
own  true  interest.  For,  as  all  in  the  beginning  was  pronounced 
good  (hat  the  good  God  had  made,  we  ought  not  to  destroy  any 
thing  that  has  life,  for  mere  gratilication.  It  is  om-  indispensable 
duty,  as  reasonable  accountable  beings,  wisely  to  ponder  our 
ways,  and  consider  the  consequent  effect  of  all  our  conduct ;  for 
if  we  are  to  gi\'e  an  account  of  every  idle  word,  how  much  more 
so  of  every  presumptuous  act. 

In  the  twenty-second  year  of  my  age,  apprehending  it  right  to 
change  my  situation  from  a  single  to  a  married  state,  and  having 
gained  an  intimate  acquaintance  with  Jemima  Seaman,  daughter 
of  Jonathan  and  Ehzabeth  Seaman,  of  Jericho,  and  my  affection 
being  drawn  towards  her  in  that  relation,  I  communicated  my 
view^s  to  her,  and  received  from  her  a  corresponding  expression 


14 


JOURNAL  OF 


of  afTeclion  ;  and  having  the  full  unity  and  concurrence  of  our 
parents  and  friends,  we,  alter  some  time,  acconiplislied  our  mar- 
riage at  a  solemn  meeting  of  Friends,  at  Westbury,  on  the  2d  of 
1st  month,  1771.    On  this  important  occasion,  we  felt  the  clear 
and  consoling  evidence  of  divine  truth,  and  it  remained  with  us 
as  a  seal  upon  our  spirits,  strengthening  us  nuitually  to  bear,  with 
becoming  fortitude,  the  vicissitudes  and  trials  which  fell  to  our 
lot,  and  of  which  we  had  a  large  share  in  passing  through  this 
probationary  state.    My  wife,  although  not  of  a  very  strong  con- 
stitution, lived  to  be  the  mother  of  eleven  children,  four  sons 
and  seven  daughters.     Our  second  davighter,  a  very  lovely 
promising  child,  died  when  young  with  the  small  pox,  and  the 
youngest  was  not  hvmg  at  its  birth.    The  rest  all  arrived  to 
years  of  discretion,  and  afforded  us  considerable  comfort,  as  they 
proved  to  be  in  a  good  degree  dutiful  children.    AH  our  sons, 
however,  were  of  weak  constitutions,  and  were  not  able  to  take 
care  of  themselves,  being  so  enfeebled  as  not  to  be  able  to  walk 
after  the  ninth  or  tenth  year  of  their  age.    The  two  eldest  died 
in  the  fifteenth  year  of  their  age,  the  third  m  his  seventeenth 
year,  and  the  youngest  was  nearly  nineteen  when  he  died.  But, 
although  thus  helpless,  the  innocency  of  their  lives,  and  the  re- 
signed cheerfulness  of  their  dispositions  to  their  allotments,  made 
the  labour  and  toil  of  taking  care  of  them  agreeable  and  pleasant ; 
and  I  trust  we  Avere  preserved  from  mmnniring  or  repining, 
beheving  the  dispensation  to  be  in  wisdom,  and  according  to  the 
will  and  gracious  disposing  of  an  all-wise  providence,  for  pur- 
poses best  known  to  himself.    And  when  I  have  observed  the 
great  anxiety  and  affliction,  wliich  many  parents  have  with 
undutiful  children  who  are  favoured  wath  health,  especially  their 
sons,  I  could  perceive  very  few  whose  troubles  and  exercises,  on 
that  account,  did  not  far  exceed  ours.     The  weakness  and 
bodily  infirmity  of  our  sons  tended  to  keep  them  much  out  of  the 
way  of  the  troubles  and  temptations  of  the  world ;  and  we  believed 
that  in  their  death  they  were  happy,  and  admitted  into  the  realms 
of  peace  and  joy :  a  reflection,  the  most  comfortable  and  joyoiia 
that  parents  can  have  in  regard  to  their  tender  offspring. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


15 


In  the  spring  after  our  marriage,  my  wife's  relations  gave  me 
an  invitation  to  come  and  live  with  them,  and  carry  on  the  busi- 
ness of  their  farm,  they  having  no  other  child  than  her.  I 
accepted  this  proposal,  and  continued  with  them  dming  their 
lives,  and  the  place  afterwards  became  my  settled  residence. 
My  advantages,  in  a  religious  point  of  view,  -were  greater  than 
before  ;  as  I  had  the  benefit  of  the  company  of  several  worthy 
Friends,  who  were  my  neighbours,  and  by  whose  example  I  was 
frequently  incited  to  seriousness  and  piety  ;  yet,  having  entered 
pretty  closely  into  business,  I  was  thereby  much  diverted  from 
my  rehgious  improvement  for  several  years.  But,  about  the 
twenty-sixth  year  of  my  age,  I  was  again  brought,  by  the  opera- 
tive influence  of  divine  grace,  under  deep  concern  of  mind ; 
and  was  led,  through  adorable  mercy,  to  see,  that  although  I  had 
ceased  from  many  sins  and  vanities  of  my  youth,  yet  there  were 
many  remaining  that  I  was  still  guilty  of,  which  were  not  yet 
atoned  for,  and  for  which  I  now  felt  the  judgments  of  God  to 
rest  upon  me.  This  caused  me  to  cry  earnestly  to  the  Most 
High  for  pardon  and  redemption,  and  he  graciously  condescended 
to  hear  my  cry,  and  to  open  a  way  Ijefore  me,  wherein  I  must 
walk,  in  order  to  experience  reconciliation  with  him ;  and  as  I 
abode  in  watchfulness  and  deep  humiliation  before  liim,  Ught 
broke  forth  out  of  oliscurity,  and  my  darkness  became  as  the 
noon-day.  I  had  many  deep  openings  in  the  visions  of  light, 
greatly  strengthening  and  establishing  to  my  exercised  mind. 
My  spirit  was  brought  under  a  close  and  weighty  labour  in 
meetings  for  discipline,  and  my  understanding  much  enlarged 
therein ;  and  I  felt  a  concern  to  speak  to  some  of  the  subjects 
engaging  the  meeting's  attention,  wliich  often  brought  unspeak- 
able comfort  to  my  mind.  About  this  time,  I  began  to  have 
openings  leading  to  the  ministry,  whicli  brought  me  imder  close 
exercise  and  deep  travail  of  spirit ;  for  although  I  had  for  some 
time  spoken  on  subjects  of  business  in  monthly  and  pi  eparative 
meetings,  yet  the  prospect  of  opening  my  mouth  in  public  meet- 
ings was  a  close  trial;  but  I  endeavoured  to  keep  my  mind  quiet 
and  resigned  to  the  heavenly  cull,  if  it  should  be  made  clear  to 
me  to  be  my  duty.    Nevertheless,  as  I  was,  soon  after,  sitting  in 


16  JOURNAL  OP 

a  meeting,  in  much  weightiness  of  spirit,  a  secret,  though  clear, 
intimation  accompanied  me  to  speak  a  few  words,  which  were 
then  given  to  me  to  utter,  yet  fear  so  prevailed,  that  I  did  not 
yield  to  the  intimation.  For  this  omission,  I  felt  close  rebuke, 
and  judgment  seemed,  for  some  time,  to  cover  my  mind  ;  but  as 
I  humbled  myself  under  the  Lord's  mighty  hand,  he  again  hfted 
up  the  light  of  his  countenance  upon  me,  and  enabled  me  to 
renew  covenant  with  him,  that  if  he  woiUd  pass  by  this  my 
offence,  I  would,  in  future,  be  faithful,  if  he  should  again  require 
such  a  service  of  me.  And  it  was  not  long  before  I  felt  an  im- 
pressive concern  to  utter  a  few  words,  which  I  yielded  to  in  great 
fear  and  dread ;  but  O  the  joy  and  sweet  consolation  that  my 
soul  experienced,  as  a  reward  for  this  act  of  faithfulness ;  and  as 
I  continued  persevermg  in  duty  and  watchfulness,  I  witnessed 
an  increase  in  divine  knowledge,  and  an  enlargement  in  my 
gift.  I  was  also  deeply  engaged  for  the  right  administration  of 
discipline  and  order  in  tlie  Church,  and  that  all  might  be  kept 
sweet  and  clean,  consistent  with  the  natiue  and  purity  of  the 
holy  profession  Ave  were  making ;  so  that  all  stumbling  blocks 
might  be  removed  out  of  the  way  of  honest  inquirers,  and  tliat 
truth's  testimony  might  be  exalted,  and  the  Lord's  name  magni- 
fied, "  who  is  over  all^  God  blessed  for  ever." 

A  war,  Avith  all  its  cruel  and  destructive  effects,  haAing  raged 
for  scA'eral  years  betAA'een  the  British  Colonies  in  North  America 
and  the  mother  country.  Friends,  as  well  as  others,  Avere  exposed 
to  inany  severe  trials  and  sufferings ;  j'et,  in  the  colony  of  Ncav- 
York,  Friends,  who  stood  faithful  to  their  principles,  and  did  not 
meddle  in  the  controversy,  had,  after  a  short  period  at  first,  con- 
siderable favour  allowed  them.  The  yearly  meeting  Avas  held 
steadily,  during  the  Avar,  on  Long  Island,  where  the  king's 
party  had  the  rule;  yet  Friends  from  the  Main,  Avhere  the 
American  army  ruled,  had  free  passage  through  both  armies  to 
attend  it,  a  iid  any  other  meetings  they  Avere  desirous  of  attend- 
ing, except  in  a  few  instances.  This  was  a  favour  which  the 
parties  Avould  not  grant  to  their  best  friends,  Avho  Avere  of  a  AA'ar- 
like  disposition ;  Avhich  shows  what  great  advantages  Avould 
redound  to  mankind,  were  they  all  of  this  pacific  spirit.    I  passed 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


17 


myself  through  the  Hncs  of  botli  armies  six  times  during  the 
war,  without  molestation,  both  parties  generally  receiving  me 
with  openness  and  civihty ;  and  although  1  liad  to  pass  over  a 
tract  of  country,  between  the  two  armies,  sometimes  more  than 
thirty  miles  in  extent,  and  which  was  much  frequented  by  rob- 
bers, a  set,  in  general,  of  ciuel  luiprincipled  banditti,  issuing  out 
from  both  parties,  yet,  excepting  once,  I  met  with  no  interruption 
even  from  them.  But  although  Friends  in  general  experienced 
many  favours  and  deliverances,  yet  those  scenes  of  war  and  con- 
fusion occasioned  many  trials  and  provings  in  \  arious  ways  to 
the  faithful.  One  circumstance  I  am  willing  to  mention,  as  it 
caused  me  considerable  exercise  and  concern.  There  was  a 
large  cellar  under  the  new  meeting-house  belonging  to  Friends 
in  New- York,  which  was  generally  let  as  a  store.  When  the 
king's  troops  entered  the  city,  they  took  possession  of  it  for  the 
purpose  of  depositing  their  warlike  stores  ;  and  ascertaining 
what  Friends  had  the  care  of  letting  it,  their  commissary  came 
forward  and  offered  to  pay  the  rent ;  and  those  Friends,  for  want 
of  due  consideration,  accepted  it.  This  caused  great  uneasiness 
to  the  concerned  part  of  the  Society,  who  apprehended  it  not  con- 
sistent with  our  peaceable  principU^s  to  receive  payment  for  the 
depositing  of  mihtary  stores  in  our  houses.  The  subject  was 
brought  before  the  yearly  meeting  in  1 779,  and  engaged  its 
careful  attention  ;  but  those  Friends,  who  had  been  active  in  the 
reception  of  the  money,  and  some  few  others,  were  not  willino- 
to  acknowledge  their  proceedings  to  be  inconsistent,  nor  to  return 
the  money  to  those  from  whom  it  was  received  ;  and  in  order  to 
justify  themselves  therein,  they  referred  to  the  conduct  of  Friends 
in  Philadelphia  in  similar  cases.  Matters  thus  appearing  very 
difficult  and  embarra'-sing,  it  was  imiledly  concluded  to  refer  the 
final  determination  thereof  to  the  yearly  meeting  of  Pennsylva- 
nia ;  and  several  Friends  were  a]>point8d  to  attend  that  ineeting 
in  relation  thereto,  among  whom  f  was  one  of  the  immber.  We 
accordingly  set  out  on  the  9th  day  of  the  9th  month,  1779,  and  I 
was  accompanied  from  home  hy  my  beloved  friend  John  Willis, 
who  was  likewise  on  the  appointment.  We, took  a  solemn  leave 
of  our  families,  they  feeling  jnucli  anxiel  v  at  parting  with  us, 

3 


18 


JOURNAL  OF 


on  account  of  the  dangers  we  were  exposed  to,  having  to  pas® 
not  only  the  Unes  of  the  two  armies,  but  the  deserted  and  almost 
uninhabited  cormtry  that  lay  between  them,  in  many  places  the 
grass  being  grown  up  in  the  streets,  and  many  houses  desolate 
and  empty.  Believing  it,  however,  my  duty  to  proceed  in  the 
service,  my  mind  was  so  settled  and  tiust-fixed  in  the  divine  arm 
of  power,  that  faith  seemed  to  banish  all  fear,  and  cheerfulness 
and  quiet  resignation  were,  I  believe,  my  constant  companions 
during  the  journey.  We  got  pernrission,  with  but  little  difficulty, 
to  pass  the  outguards  of  the  king's  army  at  Kingsbridge,  and 
proceeded  to  Westchester.  We  afterwards  attended  meetings 
at  Harrison's  Purchase,  and  Oblong,  having  the  concurrence  of 
our  monthly  meeting  to  take  some  meetings  in  our  way,  a  con- 
cern leading  thereto  having  for  some  tuiie  previously  attended  my 
mind.  We  passed  from  thence  to  Nine  Partners,  and  attended 
their  monthly  meeting,  and  then  turned  our  faces  towards  Phila- 
delphia, being  joined  by  several  others  of  the  Committee.  We 
attended  New  Marlborough,  Hardwick,  and  Kingwood  meet- 
ings on  our  journey^  and  arrived  at  Philadelphia  on  the  7th  day 
of  the  week,  and  25th  of  9th  month,  on  which  day  we  attended 
the  yearly  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders,  which  began  at  the 
eleventh  hour.  I  also  attended  all  the  sittings  of  the  yearly 
meeting  until  the  4th  day  of  the  next  week,  and  was  then  so 
indisposed  Avith  a  fever,  which  had  been  increasing  on  me  for 
several  days,  that  I  was  not  able  to  attend  after  that  time.  I  was 
therefore  not  present  when  the  subject  was  discussed,  which  came 
from  our  yearly  meeting  ;  but  I  was  informed  by  my  companion, 
that  it  was  a  very  solcnm  opportunity,  and  the  matter  was  re- 
sulted in  advising  that  the  money  shoidd  be  returned  into  the 
office  from  whence  it  was  received,  accompanied  with  our  rea- 
sons for  so  doing  :  and  this  was  accordingly  done  by  the  direction 
of  our  yearly  meeting  the  next  year. 

The  yearly  meeting  closed  on  the  2d  day  of  the  following 
week ;  and  feeling  my  health  a  little  restored,  though  still  very 
weak,  I  left  the  city,  and  was  takeji  by  my  kind  friend  John 
Shoemaker  to  his  house.  The  next  morning  being  rainy,  and 
being  still  unwell,  I  rested  here  during  the  day,  but  my  com- 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


19 


pimion  proceeded  to  attend  the  monthly  meeting  at  the  Falls. 
The  next  day  I  went  to  Bybeny  meeting,  after  wliich  1  rode 
with  our  valuable  friend  James  Thornton  to  John  Watson's,  at 
Middletown,  where  I  was  again  joined  by  my  companion.  We 
attended  their  monthly  meeting,  and  found  things  in  but  poor 
order,  and  disciphne  at  a  low  ebb,  tor  want  ol'  faithfid  standard 
bearers.  We  then  attended  meetings,  to  some  satisfact/ion,  at 
Wright's  Town,  Plumbstead,  and  Buckingham.  From  thence 
we  proceeded  to  the  monthly  meeting  at  Hardwick,  where  things 
appeared  very  low  as  to  the  right  exercise  of  discipline  ;  but  feel- 
ing our  mmds  engaged,  we  laboured,  in  the  ability  received,  for 
their  assistance  and  encouragement.  After  this  we  passed  on 
to  the  Drowned  Lands,  and  attended  a  meeting  with  the  few 
Friends  of  that  place,  and  some  others  who  came  in  ;  but  tilings, 
pertaining  to  religion,  seemed  at  a  very  low  ebb  with  them,  which 
makes  hard  work  for  the  poor  traveller.  From  thence  we  went 
pretty  directly  to  Nine  Partners,  and  after  having  two  meetings 
there,  we  proceeded  to  Oswego  and  Appoquague,  and  then  to  the 
monthly  meeting  at  Oblong,  in  all  which  meetings  truth  was 
exalted,  and  I  left  them  with  peace  of  mind.  We  then  turned 
our  faces  homeward,  and  after  going  a  few  mUes  on  our  way,  we 
were  overtaken  by  a  constaljle,  with  a  warrant  from  a  magis- 
trate to  bring  my  companion  before  him,  who,  after  examina- 
tion, committed  him  to  a  board  of  commissioners,  as  a  dangerous 
person  to  travel  at  such  a  time.  We  were  led  to  believe,  on 
inquiry,  that  this  inteiruption  was  merely  the  fruit  of  envy,  and 
occasioned  by  two  acquaintances  of  my  companion,  who  had 
fled  from  the  Island  for  refuge.  However,  after  a  short  deten- 
tion, which  gave  me  an  opportunity  of  visiting  a  few  families  of 
my  relations,  and  of  attending  a  small  meeting  which  I  had 
passed  from  in  some  heaviness  before,  he  was  set  at  hberty,  and 
we  attended  the  quarterly  meeting  at  Oblong.  After  this  we 
passed  on,  taking  meetings  at  Pcachpond,  Amawalk,  and  the 
monthly  meeting  at  Purchase,  and  from  thence  proceeded  home. 
I  found  my  family  well,  which,  together  with  the  preservations 
and  favours  experienced  in  our  journey,  impressed  my  mind  with 
thankfulness  and  gratitude  to  the  great  and  blessed  author  of  all 


20 


JOURNAL  OF 


our  mercies.  I  was  from  home  in  this  journey  about  nine  weeks, 
and  rode  about  eiglit  hundred  and  sixty  miles. 

After  the  close  of  the  aforesaid  journey,  I  felt  my  mind  en- 
gaged to  make  a  general  visit  to  Friends  on  the  Main  belonging 
to  our  yearly  meeting ;  and  with  the  concm  rence  of  B^riends, 
and  in  company  with  William  Valentine,  who,  imder  a  hke  con- 
cern, had  agreed  to  be  my  companion,  I  left  home  on  the  1st 
of  the  week,  and  4t]i  of  3d  month,  1781,  in  order  to  accomplish 
the  same.  We  sat  with  Friends  in  our  own  meeting,  and  then 
proceeded  to  Flushing ;  and  the  next  day,  the  commanding  offi- 
cer of  the  king's  troops  at  this  place  permitting  us,  we  crossed 
the  Sound  to  Frog's  Neck,  and  lodged  with  our  friend  Joseph 
Caustin.  On  the  following  day  we  attended  an  appointed  meet- 
ing at  Westchester,  and  then  went  forward,  taking  meetings  as 
they  came  in  coinse  for  fifteen  days  successively,  the  last  at  Lit- 
tle Nine  Partners :  and  although  in  many  places  meetings  ap- 
peared in  a  low  state,  as  to  the  life  of  religion,  yet,  through  divine 
favour,  help  was  afforded,  insomuch  that  I  generally  left  them 
with  the  satisfactory  evidence,  that  my  way  had  been  rightly 
directed  among  them. 

After  the  last  mentioned  meeting  we  set  forward  towards  Sara- 
toga, and  lodged  that  night  at  an  inn.  The  innkeeper's  wife, 
in  the  course  of  some  conversation,  discovered  that  my  companion 
and  I  were  from  Long  Island,  where  the  king's  party  bore  rule  ,' 
and  she,  being  a  friend  to  their  cause,  seemed  to  wonder  much, 
that  we  should  leave  them,  and  come  out  among  the  Americans, 
signifying  that  if  she  Avas  there,  she  should  not  be  willing  to 
come  away ;  and  when  I  informed  her  that  I  expected  we  should 
shortly  return  thither  again,  her  admiration  Avas  still  more  ex- 
cited, and  she  was  surprised  how  we  should  dare  to  act  so: 
whereupon  I  took  occasion  to  acquaint  her  how  we  stood  in 
regard  to  the  contending  parties  ;  informing  her  that  as  we  took 
no  part  in  the  controversy,  but  were  friends  to  them  and  to  all 
mankind,  and  were  principled  against  all  wars  and  fightings,  the 
contending  powers  had  such  confidence  in  us,  and  favour  towards 
UP,  that  they  let  us  pass  freely  on  religious  accounts,  through 
both  their  armies  without  interruption ;  a  privilege,  which  they 


ET.IAS  IllCKS. 


21 


would  not  grant  to  their  own  people.  This  account  made  her 
marv('I  greatly,  having  never  lieard  of  the  Hke  jjefore.  She 
acknowledged  it  was  very  good,  and  wished  lor  herself  that  she 
could  come  into  the  same  situation,  but  said  she  could  not,  unless 
she  first  had  retaliation  for  the  wrongs  she  had  received,  after 
which,  she  siiid  she  should  be  willing  to  forgive  them  ;  not  con- 
sidering, that  there  was  nothing  to  be  forgiven,  where  full  pay 
or  satisfaction  had  been  received.  Nevertheless,  this  is  the  natural 
condition  and  disposition  of  all  wordly-niinded  men  and  women, 
who  hav^e  not  known,  through  the  powerful  influence  of  the 
gospel  of  Christ,  the  work  of  regeneration  and  the  new  birth, 
whereby  they  might  experience  redemption  from  such  a  malicious 
and  revengeful  spirit. 

On  the  next  day  we  proceeded  to  Coeman's  Patent,  on  the 
west  side  of  Hudson  river,  which  we  crossed  at  a  place  called 
Claverack  landing.  We  reached  there  on  7th  day  evening, 
and  the  following  day  lu'id  a  meeting  with  the  few  Friends, 
who  had  lately  settled  at  that,  place,  and  some  of  their  neighbours, 
who  were  mostly  Baptists.  It  was  the  first  Friends'  meeting 
ever  held  there,  and  was  a  satisfactory  season.  We  then  rode 
that  afternoon  about  twelve  miles  towards  Albany,  and  lodged 
at  an  inn ;  and  the  next  day  we  reached  Saratoga,  since  called 
Easton,  and  lodged  with  our  friend  Daniel  Cornell.  It  was  late 
in  the  night  before  we  arrived,  and  the  evening  snow^ ;  and 
the  country  being  newly  settled.  Friends'  houses  were  generally 
but  poor,  so  that  several  times,  \\diile  in  these  parts,  I  felt  the 
snow  fall  on  my  face  when  in  bed.  This  afi'ectcd  me  with  a 
heavy  cold  when  I  first  came  here,  but  aftenvards  I  was  much 
favoured  during  the  journey,  having  in  good  measure  jjecome 
inured  to  tlic  hardships  Ave  had  to  go  through.  We  attended 
the  meetings  belonging  to  this  monthly  meeting,  ])eing  four 
in  immber ;  viz.  Saratoga  alias  Easton,  Danby  aliout  forty  miles 
further  to  the  north  east.  White  Creek,  aiid  Hoosack.  The 
montlily  meeting  was  held  alternately  at  this  latter  place  and 
Saratoga.  We  also  visited  nearly  all  the  families  belonging  to 
this  monthly  meeting,  and  had  good  satisfaction,  and  a  peacefiil 
reward  of  oiu-  labours.    From  thence  we  went  to  New  Britain, 


22 


JOURNAL  OF 


and  visited  three  families,  in  each  of  which  there  was  but  one 
member  of  our  Society.  We  tiien  returned  to  Nine  Partners,  and 
attended  their  monthly  meeting,  also  several  other  meetings  in 
that  neighbourhood  whidi  we  were  not  at  in  our  way  up.  After 
this  we  attended  OI)Iong  ([uarterly  meeting,  and  next  the  monthly 
meeting  of  Shapacjua  ;  and  then  taking  meetings  at  Purchase, 
Mamaroneck  and  Westchester,  we  passed  the  Sound  again,  and 
got  safe  home  the  15th  day  of  5th  month.  I  was  gladly  received 
by  my  family  and  friends,  having  been  absent  on  this  journey 
about  ten  weeks,  and  rode  about  eight  hundred  and  fifty  miles. 
We  attended  thirty-two  meetings,  six  of  which  were  monthly  meet- 
ings, and  one  quarterly  meetmg,  and  visited  about  nuiety  families. 

It  was  in  the  latter  part  of  this  jomney,  between  Mamaroneck 
and  Westchester,  that  we  met  with  the  inteiraption,  which  I 
before  alluded  to,  from  some  of  those  robbers,  who  frequented  the 
country  between  the  two  armies.  I  was  a  little  ahead  of  my 
companion  and  some  other  Friends,  and  was  met,  and  accosted 
by  two  of  those  persons  in  a  very  rough  manner.  I  did  not  see 
them  until  they  spoke,  and  one  of  them  demanded  very  rudely 
to  know  where  we  were  going.  I  looked  cahnly  upon  hun,  and 
informed  him,  without  the  least  interruption  of  mind,  where  we 
were  intending  to  go.  He  then  interrogated  me  further,  as  to 
where  we  had  been,  what  our  business  was,  and  where  we  were 
from,  to  all  of  which  I  gave  true  and  suitable  answers  in  a  mild 
and  pleasant  tone.  They  seemed  thereliy  to  be  entirely  dis- 
armed of  their  rage  and  violence,  although  they  had  just  before 
robbed  and  beat  a  man ;  and  the  one,  who  had  hitherto  stood 
silent,  being  the  most  overcome,  said  to  his  fellow,  "  Come,  let 
us  go,  the  Quakers  go  where  they  please ;"  and,  then  turning 
away,  they  left  us  to  pursue  our  jomney  without  further  interrup- 
tion. I  considered  this  as  a  mercifid  preservation  through  the 
interference  of  divine  providence,  who,  by  his  power,  not  only  sets 
bounds  to  the  sea,  and  saith,  "  Hitherto  shalt  thou  come,  but  no 
further ;  and  here  sliall  (liy  proud  waves  be  stayed,"  but  also 
limits  the  rage  and  will  of  wicked  men,  and  turns  them  from  their 
purpose ;  and  thereby  delivers,  from  their  power  and  cruelty, 
those  that  put  theh  trust  in  him. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


In  the  fall  of  the  year  1781,  I  was  taken  sick  with  a  fever, 
which  lasted  for  several  months,  in  the  course  of  which  my 
strength  became  very  mxich  exhausted,  and  some  of  my  friends 
were  ready  to  conclude,  that  I  should .  not  continue  long  with 
them ;  yet,  through  the  whole  of  my  indisposition,  I  had  to 
beheve  that  I  should  recover.  But  througli  the  exercise  and 
distress  both  of  body  and  mind  which  I  experienced,  it  proved 
a  very  humbling  tlispensation  to  me.  One  circimistance  in 
particular  made  it  peculiarly  exercising  to  my  mind,  although  it 
was  that  on  which  I  principally  grounded  my  belief  of  recovery. 
When  I  was  reduced  nearly  to  the  lowest  state  of  bodily  weak- 
ness, a  prospect  opened  on  my  mind  to  pay  a  religious  visit  to 
some  parts  of  our  island  where  no  Friends  lived,  and  among  a 
people,  who,  from  the  acquaintance  I  had  with  them,  were  more 
likely  to  mock,  than  to  receive  me,  seeing  that  I  considered 
myself  but  a  child  in  such  a  service.  But  when  the  prospect  first 
presented,  it  waa  very  impressive  on  my  mind,  and  an  injunc- 
tion seemed  to  attend  requiring  my  assent  thereto  ;  and  although 
I  pleaded  as  an  excuse  my  weakness  and  inability  of  body,  as 
well  as  my  unfitness,  even  if  I  was  well,  for  such  a  service,  yet 
with  all  my  reasonings  and  pleadings  I  could  feel  no  excuse 
granted  me,  and  the  requisition  lay  heavy  upon  me  both  day 
and  night.  By  my  thus  standing  out,  I  was  brought  very  low  both 
in  body  and  mind ;  and  finding  that  I  coidd  get  no  peace  in  this 
state  of  refusal,  and  that  if  I  did  not  yield,  my  life  must  be  taken 
for  my  stubbornness  without  any  prospect  of  peace  hereafter,  I 
at  length  j-nelded  to  the  heavenly  call,  which  brought  inunediate 
peace  and  comfort  to  my  afflicted  soul ;  and  the  Lord  was  very 
gracious,  opening  many  things  for  my  encouragement.  In  the 
forepart  of  the  next  sunmier,  having  fijUy  recovered  my  health,  and 
apprehending  the  right  time  had  arrived  to  perform  this  service, 
I  opened  it  to  the  monthly  meeting,  and  obtained  its  unity  and 
concurrence,  and  two  Friends  agreed  to  bear  me  company.  We 
set  out  about  the  middle  of  the  8tli  month,  1782,  and  had  a  very 
favoured  meeting  at  Jamaica,  ^nth  a  considerable  number  of 
the  inhabitants.  After  this  we  had  a  meeting  at  Samuel  Doughty's, 
on  the  south  side  of  the  island,  and  then  passed  on  to  a  Dutch 


24 


JOURNAL  OF 


settlement  called  Flatlands,  where  we  had  some  difficulty  to 
obtain  a  nieethig,  in  consequence  of  the  priest  of  the  place  being 
opposed  thereto.  Tlie  people  seemed  generally  afraid  to  offend 
him,  but  said  that  if  he  would  consent,  they  should  be  very 
willing  to  attend.  However  his  assent  could  not  be  obtained, 
for  he  appeared  very  jealous  lest  his  interest  in  the  people  sliould 
be  affected.  But  there  was  one  man,  who  seemed  so  much 
master  of  his  own  house,  that  he  said  we  were  welcome  to  have 
a  meeting  in  it,  let  others  say  what  they  might.  A  meeting  was 
accordingly  appointed,  which,  although  small,  was  a  satisfactory 
opportunity.  The  master  of  the  house  and  his  wife,  m  an  espe- 
cial manner,  seemed  much  aflected  therewith,  and  pressed  us  to 
come  and  see  them  agaiir.  From  thence  we  passed  on,  and  had 
meetings  at  Gravesend,  New-Utrecht,  and  Springfield,  all  to  good 
satisfaction.  From  tlie  latter  we  proceeded  home,  feehng  the 
comfortable  reward  of  peace  for  this  service,  and  very  thankful  to 
the  Lord,  my  gracious  helper,  for  his  countenance  and  support 
therein.    May  his  name  lie  praised  for  ever. 

In  the  latter  part  of  1782,  I  attended,  with  a  committee  of  the 
yearly  meeting,  the  quarterly  meetmg  on  the  Main,  and  the 
monthly  meetings  thereunto  belonging,  on  a  proposition  from 
the  said  quarterly  meeting  for  a  division  thereof.  We  were 
absent  about  seven  weeks,  and  rode  about  six  hundred  and  sixty 
miles. 


KLIAS  lllCKS. 


35 


CHAPTER  II. 

Visit  to  Nine  Partners,  1783.— Visit  on  Long  Island,  1784.— Visit  to  New- York 
and  Staten  Island,  1790. — Visit  to  Vennont,  1790.— Visit  on  Long  Island, 
1791. — General  visit  to  Friends  of  New-York  yearly  Meeting,  1791. — Visit 
to  the  Meetings  of  Ministers  and  Elders,  1792.— Visit  to  Friends  in  New- 
England  and  Vermont,  1793. 

In  the  fall  of  the  year  1783,  I  attended  the  quarterly  meeting 
at  Nine  Partners,  also  the  meeting  for  sufferings,  which  was  held 
there  at  this  time ;  and,  on  my  return,  I  was  at  the  meetings 
held  at  Oswego  and  Perquago.  I  was  from  home  about  eleven 
days,  and  rode  about  one  himdred  and  seventy  miles.  The  re- 
ward of  peace  which  I  felt  for  this  little  service,  and  finding  my 
family  well  on  my  return,  excited  gratitude  and  thankfulness  of 
heart  to  the  author  of  all  our  mercies  and  blessings  ;  who  richly 
rewardeth  every  labour  of  his  dependent  and  devoted  children. 

A  concern  having  for  some  time  impressed  my  mind  to  pay  a 
religious  visit  to  the  inhal)itants  of  some  of  the  adjacent  towns, 
who  were  not  in  profession  with  us,  and  having  obtained  the 
unity  and  concurrence  of  my  friends  therein,  I  left  home  on  the 
1st  day  of  the  week,  and  13th  of  (3th  month,  1781,  in  order  to 
perform  that  service.  I  attended  our  own  meeting  in  the  fore- 
noon ;  and,  in  the  afternoon,  one  appointed  at  Hempstead  Har- 
bour, to  good  satisfaction.  Our  next  appointment  was  on  2d 
day,  at  a  village  called  Herricks,  where  there  was  but  little  pro- 
fession as  to  religion  ;  nevertheless,  we  had  a  refreshing  season 
among  them.  The  power  and  jjresence  of  the  Lord  were  wit- 
nessed to  preside  amongst  us  in  an  eminent  manner.  Many 
hearts  were  tendered ;  and  the  i)eaceable  kingdom  and  govern- 
ment of  the  Messiah  was  exalted :  to  Zion's  king  may  all  the 
praise  be  ascribed,  who  only  is  worthy  for  ever. 

4 


26 


JOURNAL  OP 


From  thence  we  went  to  the  Avidow  Cornell's  at  Success, 
where  we  lodged,  and  had  a  satisfactory  meeting  there  the  next 
day  ;  many  present  were  afiected  by  the  power  of  truth,  which 
ran  freely  over  all,  to  the  comfort  and  refreshment  of  the  sincere- 
hearted.  After  tliis  we  rode  to  Benjamin  r)ought\''s  and  lodged  ; 
and  the  next  day  we  had  a  meeting  at  the  Little  Plains,  about  a 
mile  from  our  lodgings,  among  a  loose  airy  people.  The  Lord's 
power  was  manifest  for  our  lielp,  bringing  things  close  home  to 
their  several  conditions.  The  day  Ibllowing,  we  attended  two 
meetings,  one  at  Jamaica,  and  the  other  at  a  place  called  the 
Fresh  Meadows,  near  Flushing.  Although  the  people  were  too 
generally  at  ease,  and  in  an  vmconcerned  state,  with  r(;gard  to  their 
religious  improvement,  yet,  through  the  interposition  of  divine 
goodness  and  mercy,  sorne  hearts  were  tendered  by  the  convicting 
power  of  truth,  and  ourselves  comforted  in  the  faithl'ul  discharge 
of  duty.  After  these  opportimities,  we  rode  to  our  friend  Isaac 
Underliill's  at  Flushing,  and  lodged  ;  and  tlio  next  day  attended 
a  meeting  appointed  in  Friends'  meeting-house  in  that  town, 
wherein  the  Master's  presence  was  witnessed,  to  the  comfort  and 
satisfaction  of  the  upright  in  heart. 

From  thence  we  went  to  Newtown,  and  lodged  with  a  man 
not  in  profession  with  us.  We  had  a  meeting  at  his  house  the 
following  day,  wherein-  the  spirit  of  truth  favoured  with  gospel 
comnmnication,  suited  to  the  states  of  those  present,  and  relieving 
to  my  own  mind.  The  four  following  days  we  attended  meet- 
ings at  the  Kilns  in  Newtown,  Bushwick,  Brooklyn,  Flatbush, 
Flatlands,  and  Gravesend.  After  the  last,  we  turned  our  faces 
homeward,  having  a  meeting  at  Samuel  Doughty 's,  and  another 
at  a  Axdgwam,  among  the  black  people  and  Indians  ;  both  satis- 
factory seasons.  The  next  meeting  was  at  Springfield,  among 
a  people,  who  appeared  to  be  in  a  state  of  great  darkness ;  but 
the  Lord  was  pleased,  by  his  own  power,  to  command  the  light 
to  slime  in  many  hearts ;  insomuch  that  the  meeting  ended 
under  divine  favour.  To  Him  alone  may  all  the  praise  be 
ascribed,  who  is  worthy  for  ever.  The  day  following,  attended 
two  meetuigs  ;  one  at  Foster's  Meadow,  the  other  at  the  widow 
Keziah  Mott's. 


HlCKS. 


27 


After  this  we  rode  to  niy  father's  at  Rockaway,  on  the  south 
side  of  the  'Island  ;  and  the  next  day  attended  a  meeting  fliere. 
The  day  following  attended  two  meetings  at  Hempstead  South, 
the  latter  at  the  house  of  our  friend  John  Smith  ;  all,  I  trust,  in 
a  good  degree,  prolila])le  and  instructive  seasons.  Owr  next  and 
last  appointment,  at  this  time,  was  in  the  town  of  Henrpstcad,  the 
following  day.  It  was  a  large  satisfactory  opportunity  ;  wherein 
divine  help  was  alTorded  to  minister  suitnlily  to  the  states  of  those 
present,  and  to  the  comfort  and  edification  of  many  minds.  To 
the  Master  of  our  assemblies,  be  the  pnaise.  Nothing  is  due  to 
man.  From  hence  I  retm  ncd  home,  and  found  my  family  well ; 
having  rode,  whilst  out,  alwut  one  hundred  miles. 

A  few  weeks  after  my  return  from  the  aforesaid  visit  to  the 
inhabitants  of  some  of  the  adjacent  towns,  not  feeling  my  mind 
reUe\^ed  from  the  service,  I  again  left  home  on  the  4th  of  the  8th 
month  following,  in  order  to  finish  the  visit.  The  first  meeting 
I  attended  was  again  at  Hempstead ;  and  from  thence  proceeded 
along  the  south  side  of  the  island,  having  meetings  at  Thomas 
Seaman's  near  Jerusalem,  and  Thomas  Sands'  at  Huntington 
South.  The  next  was  at  Islip,  on  7th  day ;  but  not  feeling 
clear,  I  appointed  another  the  following  day,  being  the  1st  of  the 
week.  This  proved  a  satisfactory  season.  The  same  afternoon, 
I  attended  another  meeting  aliout  thirteen  miles  farther  east,  at  a 
place  called  Blue  Point.  Thence  passing  on  along  the  south 
side  of  the  island,  I  attended  meetings  at  Patchogue,  the  Fire 
Place,  South  Hampton,  North  Sea,  Amaganset  and  Montauk  at 
the  east  end  of  the  island,  among  the  Indian  natives.  In  all  of 
them,  strength  was  afforded  to  preach  the  gospel  in  a  good  degree 
of  divine  authority,  and  to  the  general  satisfaction  of  those 
assembled,  and  the  sohd  peace  of  my  own  mind. 

After  the  meetuig  at  Montauk  among  the  natives,  we  relnrned 
that  afternoon  to  a  meeting  at  East  Hampton,  which  we  had 
appointed  in  our  way  down,  and  was  held  at  the  fifth  hour.  The 
priest  of  the  to^vn,  and  a  considerable  number  of  his  hearers, 
attended,  and  all  passed  away  qxnet.  We  A\  ent  from  thence  to 
the  north  part  of  the  island,  having  meetings  at  Sagharbour, 
Shelter  Island,  South  Hold,  Oyster  Pond  Point,  and  Stephen 


28 


JOURNAL  OF 


VaU's,  a  little  back  from  the  Point ;  thence  back  by  Rivevhead 
to  St.  George's  Manor,  where  we  had  a  meeting,  and  all  satis- 
factory seasons.  We  passed  from  thence  by  Wading  River 
to  Setauket,  and  Stonybrook,  holding  meetings  at  the  two 
last  places  to  good  satisfaction.  The  meeting  at  Setauket,  espe- 
cially, was  a  solemn  time  ;  the  Lord's  presence  was  witnessed,  to 
the  tendering  many  hearts.  After  this  we  took  meetings  at 
Jonah  Wood's,  and  James  Oakley's,  and  from  thence  returned 
homo,  and  found  my  family  well ;  tor  which  favoui",  with  the 
peace  and  satisfaction  I  felt  in  the  performance  of  this  tour  of 
duty,  my  mind  was  inspired  with  gratitude  and  humble  acknow- 
ledgments to  the  Lord,  my  gracious  helper. 

In  the  12th  month  following,  feeling  my  mind  drawn  to  a 
few  places  eastward,  on  the  north  part  of  the  island,  I  again  left 
home  on  the  2d  of  said  month,  and  took  meetings  at  Huntington, 
Cowharbour,  Crab  Meadow,  Smithtown,  Setauket,  Wading 
River,  Quoram,  Joshua  Smith's  near  the  branch;  and  from 
thence  home.  In  all  those  meetings,  truth  favoured  me  with 
ability  to  discharge  myself  faithfully,  to  the  peace  of  my  own 
mind  ;  and,  I  trust,  to  the  edification  and  instruction  of  the  honest- 
minded  in  the  several  meetings. 

Having  felt  drawings  on  my  mind  to  pay  a  religious  visit  to 
some,  not  in  profession  with  us,  on  the  western  part  of  our  island, 
New-York,  and  Staten  Island,  and  obtaining  the  concurrence  of 
our  monthly  meeting,  I  proceeded  therein,  the  28th  of  3d  month, 
1790,  Fry  Willis  kindly  bearing  me  company.  Our  first  appoint- 
ment was  at  Newtown,  at  the  widow  Smith's,  who  received  us, 
and  opened  her  house  for  a  meeting,  which  was  held  to  good 
satisfaction.  The  next  day  we  had  two  meetings  ;  the  first,  at 
Friends'  meeting-house  at  the  Kilns,  the  other,  ui  the  evening, 
at  a  neighbouring  vUlage,  called  Juniper  Swamp  ;  both  favoured 
seasons,  many  hearts  being  tendered  by  the  prevalence  of  the 
spirit  of  truth,  which,  through  heavenly  help,  was  exalted  over 
all.  The  day  following,  way  opening  therefor,  we  had  a  meeting 
at  Hurlgate  in  the  afternoon,  to  the  general  satisfaction  of  those 
present,  and  to  my  own  comfort ;  having  been  enabled  to  dis- 
charge myself  faithfully,  in  a  plain  way  among  them.    After  this 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


29 


we  proceeded  to  New- York,  and  the  evening  of  the  next  day,  we 
had  a  large,  and,  I  trust,  profitable  meeting,  in  a  public  building 
called  the  City  Tavern.  Our  next  appointment  waa  in  Friends' 
meeting-house,  the  evening  following ;  it  was  a  very  large  col- 
lection, and,  through  the  gracious  extendings  of  divine  mercy,  the 
power  of  tiTith  was  exalted  over  all,  to  the  comfort  and  strength  of 
my  own  mind,  and  the  sohd  satisfaction  and  rejoicing  of  many 
present. 

.  The  day  following  we  passed  to  f?taten  Island,  and  the  next 
day,  being  the  1st  of  the  week,  we  [lad  two  meetings  :  the  first, 
at  the  house  of  Peter  Prawl,  who  was  favourably  inchned  towards 
Friends.  It  was  a  ftivomed  season,  wherein  the  Master's  pre- 
sence was  witnessed  eminently  to  preside,  and  in  the  precious 
influence  thereof,  the  gospel  was  preached  in  demonstration  of  the 
Spirit,  and  with  power,  to  the  awakening  and  tendering  the  hearts 
of  many  present :  to  the  Lord  only  wise,  be  the  praise  and  glory 
of  his  own  work  ;  for  he  only  is  worthy  for  ever.  The  meeting 
in  the  afternoon,  held  at  the  house  of  the  widow  of  our  friend 
Thomas  Ridgway,  proved  a  trying  season,  but  I  trust  ended  well. 
We  had  two  more  meetings  on  the  island  the  next  day,  and  the 
solemnity  attending  gave  encouragement  to  hope,  that  they  were 
of  some  use  to  those  assembled.  After  this  we  returned  to 
New- York  with  peace  of  mind,  accompanied  with  the  good  wishes 
of  many  of  those  we  had  visited. 

The  day  after  our  arrival  in  the  city.  Friends'  monthly  meeting 
was  held,  which  we  attended ;  and  the  evening  of  the  next  day, 
we  had  a  large  satisfactory  meeting  in  the  suburbs  of  the  town, 
in  a  large  building  called  the  Hospital.  The  next  day,  at  the 
tenth  hour,  visited  the  poor  in  the  poor  house.  The  visit  was 
comfortable  and  satisfactory.  At  the  third  hour  we  had  a  pretty 
full  meeting,  in  a  house  belonging  to  the  Methodists,  which  they 
offered  us  for  tliat  purpose  ;  and  in  the  e\  ening  we  had  another 
large  meeting  in  Friends'  meeting  house ;  both  satisfactory  sea- 
sons, and,  I  trust,  comfortable  and  edifying  to  many  who  atteftded. 
The  next  day  we  visiled  a  few  families  of  Friends,  as  way  open- 
ed, which  closed  our  visit  for  this  time  to  the  city.  The  day  after, 
being  the  first  of  the  week,  and  the  11th  of  4th  month,  we  had  a 


30 


JOURNAL  OP 


satisfactory  meeting  at  Brooklyn.  The  two  following  days  we 
attended  two  meetings  on  oiu"  way  home,  the  first  at  Samuel 
Donghty's,  at  Jamaica  South,  the  latter  in  Jamaica  town  ;  both 
favoured  seasons,  although  many  who  attended  were  light  and 
airy  ;  yet  the  power  of  truth  rising  into  dominion,  a  comfortable 
solemnity  was  spread  over  the  assembhes.  I  left  them  in  the 
enjoyment  of  true  peace  of  mind,  and  returned  to  my  family  the 
evening  following,  and  found  all  well ;  which,  with  other  un- 
merited favours,  witnessed  in  the  course  of  this  little  engagement, 
filled  ray  mind  with  thankful  acknowledgments  to  the  Shepherd 
of  Israel,  who  is  over  all,  worthy  for  ever. 

In  the  latter  part  of  the  summer  of  this  year,  I  performed  a 
visit,  in  company  with  James  Parsons  of  New- York,  to  some 
people  favoiuably  disposed  towards  Friends,  who  resided  in  the 
towns  of  Strafibrd  and  Sharon,  in  the  State  of  Vermont,  about 
fifteen  miles  west  of  Connecticut  river.    I  left  home  the  28th  of 
7th  month,  and  attended  Purchase  quarterly  meeting,  and  a 
meeting  on  first  day,  at  Cornwall  in  Connecticut,  on  our  way, 
and  then  passed  on  to  Northampton  on  Connecticut  river ;  from 
thence  up  the  east  side  of  the  river,  through  Massachusetts  and 
part  of  New  Hampshire,  as  far  as  Hanover ;  then  crossing  the 
river,  we  rode  about  fifteen  mUes  westerly,  to  the  town  of  Straf- 
ford, to  the  house  of  Timothy  Blake,  who  was  principally  instra- 
mental  in  collecting  those  people.    Their  first  meeting  was  at 
his  house.    He  appeared  convinced  of  the  principle  of  the  inward 
light,  as  held  by  us ;  and  had  gathered  a  number  into  the  same 
belief,  in  a  good  degree.    They  held  two  meetings  when  we 
came  among  them,  one  at  his  house,  and  the  other  at  the  adja- 
cent town  of  Sliaron  ;  but,  for  want  of  keeping  inward  enough  to 
the  principle  of  divine  light  and  grace,  they  became  weak-;  and 
those,  who  apprehended  it  their  duty  to  teach,  had  got  too  much 
out  into  words  and  speculative  preaching  and  doctrine,  which  soon 
produced  discord  and  a  schism  among  them.    They  appeared  to 
have  been  at  times  much  favoured,  and  several  of  them  had  their 
understandings  considerably  illumined ;   insomuch  that  they 
were  joined,  at  their  request,  in  membership  with  Friends,  and 
iheir  meetings  came  under  Friends'  notice  ;  but  being  far  dis- 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


31 


tant  floin  any  other  meeting  of  the  society,  and  not  keeping  low 
and  little  enough,  they  mostly  became  jjewildered  and  scattered, 
and  their  meetings  dropped.  Yet  a  few  kept,  or  regained,  tlieir 
first  love ;  several  of  whom  afterwards  removed  nearer  to  Friends. 
We  passed  several  days  among  them  ;  and  then,  taking  leave, 
returned  homeward  by  Danby,  Saratoga  ahas  Easlon,  and  Hud- 
son, to  Nine  Partners,  attending  meetings  as  they  fell  in  our  way, 
and  reached  Nine  Partners  in  time  for  their  quarterly  meeting. 
After  this  we  passed  pretty  directly  home,  attending  a  meeting  at 
Shapaqua  on  first  day.  I  was  from  home,  on  this  journey, 
about  three  weeks  and  five  days,  attended  two  quarterly  nipet- 
ings,  and  seven  particular  meetings,  and  travelled  about  five 
hundred  and  ninety-one  miles. 

In  the  latter  part  of  the  winter,  and  sprmg  of  the  ensuing- 
year,  in  the  drawings  of  gospel  love,  and  with  the  unity  of  my 
firiends,  I  performed  a  visit  to  a  number  of  the  adjacent  towns 
and  villages  on  our  island,  among  thase  not  in  profession  with 
us.  I  was  fiom  home  about  two  weeks,  and  attended  fifteen 
meetings,  and  rode  about  one  hundred  and  fifteen  miles. 

A  prospect  having  for  some  time  impressed  my  mind  to  make  a 
general  visit  to  Friends  of  our  yearly  meeting,  and  to  have  some 
meetings  among  those  not  in  profession  with  us,  in  parts  adja- 
cent, with  the  concurrence  of  my  brethren  at  home,  I  set  out  on 
mis  service,  the  23d  of  10th  month,  1791,  and  had  meetings  at 
Flushing,  Newtown  and  Brooklyn,  on  my  way  to  New- York, 
Our  quarterly  meeting  was  lield  there  at  this  time  ;  it  ended  on 
the  sixth  day  of  the  week,  and  was  a  solemn  season,  and  gra- 
ciously owned  by  the  Master's  presence ;  many  weighty  subjects 
were  opened  through  well  quaUfied  instruments,  'to  the  satisfac- 
tion and  encouragement  of  the  livmg.  We  were  favoured  with 
the  company  of  our  beloved  friend  Mary  Ridgway,  and  her 
companion,  from  Ireland.  The  29th,  I  proceeded  on  my  journey, 
with  Andrew  UnderhiU,  who  had  kindly  given  up  to  bear  me 
company.  We  went  by  water  to  Staten  Island,  and  the  next 
day,  being  the  first  of  the  week,  we  attended  two  appointed 
meetings,  the  first  at  the  house  of  a  man  inclined  to  Friends, 
whose  wife  was  convinced  of  our  principles ;  the  latter  at  the 


32 


JOURNAL  OF 


house  of  a  professor  among  the  Methodists.  Both  were  favoured 
seasons,  many  liearts  being  tendered  through  gospel  communica- 
tion, which  flowed  freely  to  the  people.  The  31st,  we  had 
another  meeting  on  the  island,  at  the  house  of  the  widow  Ridg- 
way ;  after  this,  in  the  evening,  we  had  a  favoured  and  in- 
structive season  with  the  widow's  family.  The  next  day  we 
passed  over  to  Rahway,  in  East  Jersey.  And  on  fourth  day,  the 
2d  of  11th  month,  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Plainfield, 
and  an  appointed  meeting  in  the  evening  at  Elijah  Pound's,  near 
Brunswick  ;  both,  I  trast,  profitable  seasons  to  some  present. — 
Wie  returned  next  morning  to  Rahway,  and  attended  Friends' 
meeting  in  that  place  ;  and  one  in  the  evening  at  Woodbridge, 
and  returned  to  Rahway  to  lodge.  The  next  day  we  passed  over 
again  to  Staten  Island,  and  had  two  meetings  in  the  south-west- 
ern part,  wherein  help  was  afforded  to  discharge  myself  faithfully, 
in  a  plain  way,  suited,  as  I  believe,  to  the  states  of  those  who 
attended  ;  they  were  of  different  professions;,  being  EpiscopaUans, 
Presbyterians,  Baptists,  and  Metliodists.  We  returned  again  on 
seventh  day  evening  to  our  lodgings  at  Rahway,  to  the  house  of 
our  kind  friend  Joseph  Shotwell ;  and  the  next  day,  l)eing  the  first 
of  the  week,  and  6th  of  the  11th  month,  we  attended  their  fore- 
noon arxd  afternoon  meetings  ;  both,  I  trust,  instructive  edifying 
seasons,  worthy  of  remembrance.  To  the  Lord  only  wise,  be  the 
praise  and  glory  of  his  own  Avork,  for  to  him  it  is  due. 

The  following  day  we  attended  an  appointed  meeting  at  the 
eleventh  hour  in  Elizabethtown,  at  the  house  of  our  friend 
Joseph  Stackhouse  ;  and,  although  small,  yet  it  proved  a  satis- 
factory season ;  and  in  the  evening,  one  at  Newark,  held  in 
their  coiut-hovlse,  which  was  large  and  much  crowded.  I  was 
drawn  forth  among  them  in  a  large  doctrinal  testimony,  I  beheve 
to  general  satisfaction,  and  greatly  to  the  peace  and  relief  of  my 
own  mind.  Our  next  appointment  was  on  the  evening  following, 
at  a  place  called  the  English  Neighbourhood,  on  the  east  side  of 
Hackensack  river,  at  the  house  of  Thomas  Frost,  a  physician. 
Although  it  was  the  first  meeting  appointed  by  Friends,  ever 
held  at  that  place,  and  the  people  mostly  unacqixainted  with  us 
and  our  principles,  yet  they  came  freely  together,  and  generaDy 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


33 


behaved  in  an  orderly  and  commendable  manner.    The  meeting 
was  much  favoured,  being  evidently  owned  by  the  Head  of  the 
Church  ;  and  ability  was  received  to  communicate  divers  things, 
relative  to  the  true  ground  of  real  religion  and  spiritual  worship, 
which  appeared  to  obtain  the  general  assent  of  those  present. 
The  next  day,  in  the  evening,  we  had  a  meeting  at  the  house  of 
our  friend  Daniel  Lawrence,  at  Tappan,  which,  although  small, 
was  in  the  main  a  satisfactoiy  season.    On  the  three  following 
days,  we  had  two  meetings,  by  appointment,  on  our  way  to  Corn- 
wall ;  one  at  Kakiat,  at  the  house  of  the  widow  Seaman,  the 
other  at  William  Thome's,  at  Smith's  Clove.    In  going  to  the 
latter  place,  we  rode  over  the  western  part  of  the  mountains,  called 
the  Higldands.    We  got  to  the  hou^e  of  our  friend  William 
Titus,  at  Corn^\-all,  on  seventh  day  evening.    The  next  day 
attended  Friends'  meeting  there,  and  one,  by  appointment,  in  the 
evening  at  New  Windsor ;   and  lodged  with  om-  friend  James 
Thorne.    The  next  day  crossed  the  Hudson  river,  and  had  a 
meeting  at  FishkiU,  in  our  way  to  Nine  Partners ;  where  we 
arrived  on  3d  day,  and  attended  the  quarterly  meeting  of  Minis- 
ters and  Elders,  which  opened  at  the  eleventh  hour.    The  two 
following  days,  the  meeting  for  discipline  and  a  parting  meeting 
for  public  worship,  were  held.    They  were  aU  favoured  seasons, 
in  which  the  faithful  had  cause  to  bless  the  name  of  the  Lord,  for 
his  mercy  in  manifesting  his  gracious  presence  for  the  strength 
and  help  of  his  people  and  servants ;  in  a  sense  whereof,  we 
parted  from  each  other  with  mutual  rejoicing. 

On  sixth  day,  we  rode  to  Sharon  in  Connecticut,  and  the 
day  following  held  a  meeting  for  the  town's  people  in  a  large 
upper  room  in  tlieir  school-house.  A  considerable  number 
attended  ;  and,  through  heavenly  goodness,  it  proved  a  memo- 
rable time ;  the  testimony  of  truth  went  freely  forth  among 
them,  powerfully  reaching  and  tendering  many  heai  ts.  To  the 
Lord  alone,  be  the  praise. 

After  this  meeting,  we  rode  to  the  house  of  Simeon  Prague, 
about  three  miles  north  of  the  town,  and  attended  a  meeting 
there  that  evening.  Next  day,  being  the  first  of  the  week,  we 
rode  to  Goshen,  and  attended  the  meeting  held  there,  at  the 


34 


JOURNAL  OP 


house  of  Charles  Richards ;  notice  having  gone  before  of  our 
coming,  it  was  a  pretty  full  meeting,  and  ended  to  satisfaction. 
We  passed  from  thence  to  Tyringham,  in  the  state  of  Massa- 
chusetts ;  and,  on  third  day,  attended  a  meeting  in  that  neigli- 
bomhood.  Then  travelling  on  that  afternoon  and  the  next  day, 
we  got  to  West  field,  and  lodged  at  an  inn  ;  and  the  following 
day,  held  a  meeting  at  our  lodgings,  for  the  neighbourhood. 
After  this  we  rode  to  Nor^\-ich,  and  attended  a  meeting  that 
evening  at  the  house  of  Phineas  Mixer,  which  proved,  through 
heavenly  help,  a  comfortable  edif\"ing  season,  although  the  gene- 
ral part  of  those  who  attended  were  strangers  to  us  and  our  prin- 
ciples. Tlie  three  following  days,  we  passed  on  through  the 
towns  of  Northampton,  Hadley,  Sunderland,  Montague,  North- 
field  and  Walpole,  fo  John  Cook's,  in  Claremont,  where  we 
appointed  a  meeting  to  be  held  the  next  day.  Our  landlord 
undertook  to  give  the  notice  to  his  neighbours  ;  and  having  heard 
that  Friends  sometiuies  sit  their  meetings  in  silence,  he  was 
afraid,  as  he  afterwards  informed  me,  to  notify  any  of  Uie  meet- 
ing, except  two  or  three  of  his  particvUar  friends  ;  lest,  if  it  should 
prove  silent,  they  might  laugh  him  to  scorn.  In  consequence 
thereof,  the  meeting  was  very  small.  But  such  was  the  kind- 
ness of  divine  Providence,  that  he  did  not  fail  to  manifest  his 
presence  powerfully  among,  as  it  were,  the  two  or  three,  to  the 
conviction  and  reproof  of  our  mifaillifid  landlord  ;  insomuch  that 
he  infonned  me,  when  1  came  that  wuy  again,  that  his  folly  and 
bUndness  had  given  him  much  trouble  and  distress;  and  he  was 
now  very  pressing  and  desirous  I  would  appoint  another  meet- 
ing, that  he  might  give  all  the  neighbomhood  general  notice. 
But  we  let  him  know,  that  we  were  not  at  oin-  own  disposal ; 
and,  as  no  way  appeared  open  in  our  minds  for  such  an  appoint- 
ment at  present,  we  coidd  not  comply  with  his  desire. 

After  the  last  mentioned  meeting,  we  passed  the  next  daj-  to 
Windsor,  the  most  south-easterly  town  in  the  state  of  Vermont, 
on  the  west  side  of  Connecticut  river.  Here  we  had  a  meeting 
in  their  court-house,  wliich  \\"as  very  commodiously  fitted  up  for 
die  purpose,  and  proved  a  sohd  satisfactory  opportimity.  After 
this  we  rode  to  James  WUlard's,  iji  the  town  of  Horlland  ;  who, 


« 


ELIAS  HTCKS.  35 

although  brought  iipvvdthout  any  particular  knowledge  of  Friends, 
was  yet  so  far  one  in  princil)l(^  w  ith  us,  fliat  he  had  maintained, 
by  himself  alone,  a  testimony  against  a  hireling  ministry,  against 
fighting,  and  oaths,  and  the  superstitious  observance  of  days ; 
and  had,  by  sound  reasoning,  so  far  defeated  all  his  opponents, 
that  he  was  permitted  to  remain  quiet ;  although  his  residence 
had  mostly  been  among  those  rigid  in  the  Presbyterian  profes- 
sion. We  had  a  meeting  in  his  house,  which  appeared  always 
to  be  open  to  Friends,  after  his  gaining  an  acquauitance  with 
them  ;  but  it  being  on  the  day  set  apart  by  those  in  authority  as 
a  day  of  thanksgiving,  the  meeting  was  small. 

We  took  leave  of  our  kind  landlord,  and  jom^neyed  forward  ; 
and  got  to  the  town  of  Sharon  the  next  day,  to  the  house  of  .Tared 
Bassett,  who,  with  some  of  his  neighbours,  who  were  likewise 
measmably  convmced  of  our  principles,  held  meetings  together, 
after  our  manner.  Here  we  continued  some  days,  visiting  those 
people,  and  attended  their  meeting  on  first  day,  the  4th  of  12th 
month  ;  whicli,  through  favour,  was,  I  trust,  a  [)rofitable,  edifying 
season. 

On  third  day  we  rode  o\'er  to  Hanover,  a  town  on  the  east 
side  of  Connecticut  river.  And  the  day  following  had  a  meeting 
in  the  east  part  of  said  town,  among  a  people  mostly  of  the 
Baptist  jirofession  ;  it  was,  I  ti  iist,  an  instructive  season  ;  things, 
relating  to  true  religion  and  spiritual  worship,  being  largely  open- 
ed. And  after  the  meeting,  we  had  some  free  conversation  on 
several  material  points;  viz.  election,  falling  from  grace,  water 
baptism  and  the  right  use  of  the  scriptures,  all  of  which  were 
opened  apparently  to  the  satisfaction  of  most  present.  The 
evening  of  the  next  day,  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  near 
Dartmouth  College,  which  proved  a  very  distiuljed  opportunity, 
by  reason  of  the  attendance  of  the  young  students,  whose  be- 
haviour was  very  rude  and  unbecoming ;  nevertheless,  I  hope 
the  season  was  profitable  to  some  present. 

We  returned  the  next  day  to  Jared  Bassett's,  at  Sharon,  and 
the  following  day  attended  two  meetings,  one  at  Strafford,  and 
the  other  in  the  evening  at  a  place  called  the  Hollow.  After  this 
we  returned  again  to  .Tared  Bassett's,  and  the  next  day,  being  the 


36 


JOURNAL  OF 


first  of  the  week,  and  the  1  Itli  of  12th  month,  Ave  attended  the 
meeting  at  his  house;  Avhich,  with  the  two  last,  were,  to  myself 
at  least,  satisfactory  seasons ;  feeling  conscious  of  having  dis- 
charged my  duty  faithfully  among  them,  and  having  the  answer 
of  peace  therein.  The  next  day  we  set  out  for  Danl)y,  the  near- 
est meeting  of  Friends  to  this  place  ;  but  by  reason  of  a  great  fall 
of  snow,  and  the  way  being  movmtainous,  we  did  not  arrive  there 
until  the  third  day  after  we  set  out.  The  next  day  after  our 
arrival,  their  monthly  meeting  began,  which  continued  two  days. 
It  was  a  low  time,  wherein  I  felt  my  mind  much  oppressed  with 
the  apparent  careless  indifferent  way  in  which  Friends  there  con- 
ducted the  weighty  affairs  of  the  Church  ;  many  of  them  appear- 
ing to  act  in  their  own  will,  in  as  light  a  manner,  as  they  would 
in  their  own  trivial  outward  business.  Much  labour  was  be- 
stowed in  a  plain  way,  in  order  to  impress  their  minds  with  the 
necessity  of  being  more  weighty  in  their  spirits,  when  they  pre- 
sumed to  be  active  in  the  affairs  of  truth  ;  and,  I  hope,  to  the 
encouragement  of  the  honest  hearted.  We  stayed  their  first  day 
meeting,  which  was  large,  and  proved  a  trying  season  ;  but  I  was 
favoured  to  relieve  my  mind  among  them,  although  they  appear- 
ed too  generally  insensible  of  the  operation  of  truth. 

After  meeting,  we  rode  that  afternoon,  on  our  way  towards 
Lake  Champlain,  about  twelve  miles,  and  attended  a  meeting  at 
the  house  of  our  friend  Joseph  Button,  that  evening,  among  a 
people  mostly  of  the  Baptist  profession.  It  was  a  favoured  sea- 
son, and  ability  was  received  to  open  many  things,  in  a  plain 
way,  relating  to  the  Christian  rehgion.  The  strange  doctrine 
of  absolute  personal  election  and  reprobation  was  exposed,  also 
that  of  the  impossibUity  of  falling  from  grace  ;  and  the  true  bap- 
tism explained,  in  opposition  to  that  of  water.  The  next  day  we 
pursued  our  journey  towards  Lake  Champlain,  where  we  arrived 
on  second  day,  and  were  in  the  neighbourhood  of  the  lake,  in 
different  towns,  for  about  fifteen  days,  and  attended  eleven  meet- 
ings among  Friends  and  others,  to  general  satisfaction,  and  the 
peace  of  my  mind. 

After  this  we  returned  to  Danby,  and  from  thence  we  passed 
on,  through  Q,ueensborough,  to  Saratoga  and  Easton  ;  in  which 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


37 


neighbour! lood  we  had  divers  comfortable  and  edifying  meetings, 
among  Friends  and  others.  Then  we  went  on  tlnoiigh  Pitts- 
town,  Wilhanistown,  East  Hoosack,  New  Britain,  Kline-kihi, 
Coeman's  Patent,  crossing  the  Hudson  river  on  the  ice  to  the  last 
mentioned  place,  and  from  thence  to  Hudson  ;  most  of  the  way 
upon  the  ice  on  the  river.  We  had  a  meeting  at  each  of  those 
places  to  good  satisfaction,  also  one  at  Hudson  the  next  day  after 
our  arrival  there.  After  this  we  passed  on,  attending  meetings  at 
Little  Nine  Partners,  and  one  at  the  house  of  our  friend  Tideman 
Hull ;  thence  to  the  Creek,  where  we  had  a  precious  opportunity 
on  the-  first  day  of  the  Aveek,  in  a  large  meeting  of  Friends  and 
others.  Tlien  having  meetings  at  Cinm-elbow  and  Oswego, 
we  got  in  time  to  Nine  Partners,  to  attend  their  preparative  meet- 
ing the  fifth  day  following,  which  proved  a  comfortable  season ; 
and  the  next  day  attended  a  profitable  meeting,  appointed  at  a 
place  called  Chesnut  Ridge.  The  two  following  days  we  attended 
two  meetings,  one  at  the  Branch,  and  the  other  on  the  hill  at 
Oblong  ;  and  the  day  after,  their  monthly  meeting  ;  and  returned 
to  Nine  Partners  to  attend  the  quarterly  meeting,  which  began 
the  next  day. 

The  quiet  and  comfort  of  this  meeting  seemed  much  inter- 
rupted by  the  forwardness  and  inexperience  of  some  in  the  minis- 
try, which  was  cause  of  much  aflliction  to  my  mind.  Oh  what 
great  need  there  is  for  those,  who  apprehend  themselves  called 
to  that  great  and  solenm  office,  to  know  self  wholly  reduced  ;  for, 
otherwise,  there  is  danger  of  their  endeavouring  to  clothe  them- 
selves with  the  Lord's  jewels,  which,  nevertheless,  will  turn  to 
their  own  shame  and  confusion.  I  had  some  close  exercise  in 
the  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders  on  that  account.  On  sixth 
day  we  were  at  the  monthly  meeting  at  the  Creek,  which  was 
attended  with  a  degree  of  divine  power,  but  not  without  suffering 
some  hurt,  by  the  forward  unskilful  workmen  before  mentioned. 

From  this  meeting  we  crossed  the  Hudson  again,  and  had 
meetings  at  Little  Esopus,  Marlborough,  and  Newburg  Valley  ; 
and  then  returned  to  Nine  Partners,  and  attended  their  monthly 
meeting.  After  this,  taking  leave  of  Friends  there,  we  turned 
oui  faces  homewards,  having  meetings  at  Amawalk,  Joseph 


JOURNAL,  OF 


Weeks'  near  Salem,  Purchase,  Apoqiiage,  Mamaroneck,  and 
Westchester  ;  all  favoured  seasons,  especially  the  last,  which  was 
mostly  composed  of  those  not  in  membership  with  Friends.  I 
was  enabled,  through  divine  aid,  to  open  much  doctrine  to  them, 
suitable  to  the  occasion,  and  to  the  states  of  those  present,  to  their 
general  satisfaction  ;  and  1  felt  great  peace  in  my  labour,  not  only 
for  the  service  of  this  meeting,  but  for  all  my  past  labour  in  this 
journey ;  wherein  I  had  been  graciously  favoured,  to  my  hum- 
bling admiration.    To  the  Lord  only  wise,  be  all  the  glory. 

The  next  day  we  rode  to  New-York,  where  I  lodged  with  my 
kind  companion,  and  was  cordially  received  by  his  beloved  wife, 
and  many  other  near  and  dear  friends.  We  had  been  from  the 
city  four  months  and  three  days.  The  next  day  being  the  first 
of  the  week.  I  attended  their  forenoon  and  afternoon  meetings, 
which  were  large  ;  and  the  day  following  rode  to  my  own  home, 
and,  with  a  mind  fuU  of  peace  and  solid  satisfaction,  the  sure 
reward  of  obedience,  found  my  dear  wife  and  children  all  well : 
for  which  favour,  also  for  the  manifold  unmerited  mercies  and 
preservations  I  have  from  time  to  time  received,  my  spirit  bows 
in  humble  adoration  before  thee,  O  Lord  God  of  our  health 
and  salvation,  and  desires  to  ascribe  unto  thee  greatness,  with 
glory,  thanksgiving,  and  high  renown ;  for  thou  art  worthy  to 
receive  it,  throughout  all  ages  and  generations,  world  without  end. 
Amen. 

I  was  from  home  on  this  journey  four  months  and  eleven 
days ;  rode  about  one  thousand  five  hundred  miles,  and  attended 
forty-nine  particidar  meetings  among  Friends,  three  quarterly 
meetmgs,  six  monthly  meetings,  and  forty  meetings  among  other 
people. 

In  the  latter  end  of  the  7th  month,  1792,  I  left  home,  in  com- 
pany wilh  some  otlier  Friends,  by  appointment  from  the  yearly 
iiieeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders,  to  visit  the  subordinate  meetings 
throughout  the  yearly  meeting.  I  was  from  home  nearly  a 
month,  in  which  time  we  visited  most  of  the  meetings  of  Minis- 
ters and  Elders,  and  attended  many  other  meetings  ;  and,  I 
believe,  the  visit  was  truly  useful.  We  had  many  seasonable 
and  comfortable  opportunities  among  Friends,  and,  I  trust,  the 


EL  I  AS  HICKS. 


39 


labour  was  blessed  to  some,  aud  I  felt  peace  of  imid  for  this 
little  service. 

A  concern  having  for  some  time  rested  on  my  mmd,  in  the 
feelijigs  of  gospel  love,  to  pay  a  religious  visit  to  Friends  in  New 
England,  in  the  spring  of  1793,  I  opened  it  to  my  friendi?,  and 
obtained  their  certilicate  for  that  purpose.  But  1  did  not  proceed 
therein  tUl  after  our  yearly  meeting.  I  left  home  the  2d  of  6th 
month,  being  the  first  of  the  week,  and  after  attending  our  own 
meeting,  I  crossed  the  Sound  that  afternoon,  and  got  to  the 
house  of  our  friends  Daniel  and  Samuel  Titus  at  Horseneck, 
that  evenmg.  Here  I  met  my  companion  James  Mott  from 
Mamaroneck,  who  had  kindly  given  up  to  be  my  companion  in 
this  journey.  We  set  forward  next  morning  through  the  state 
of  Connecticut,  which  took  near  three  days,  and  arrived  on 
fourth  day  evening  at  the  house  of  ova-  friend  Amos  Collins  in 
Stonijigton,  and  the  next  day  attended  Friends'  meetmg  at 
Hopkinton,  in  tlie  state  of  Rhode  Islantl.  From  thence  we 
proceeded  on  towards  Newport,  attending  meetings  in  our  way, 
at  Westerly,  Richmond,  South  Kingston,  Upper  and  Lower 
House,  and  Canonnicut  Island  ;  all  satisfactory  opportunities. 
After  this  we  crossed  the  ferrjf  to  Newjjort,  and  lodged  at  the 
house  of  our  kind  and  very  hospitable,  friend,  the  widow  Mary 
Rodman,  who,  Avith  her  two  worthy  daughters,  Sarah  and  Han- 
xiali,  treated  us  with  great  kindness  and  ail'ection  ;  and  where 
we  continued  to  lodge,  during  our  sUiy  in  that  town.  The 
meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders  opened  the  next  day  at  Ports- 
mouth. After  this  we  lodged  that  night  at  our  friend  Jacob 
Mott's,  and  the  iiext  day  attended  a  meeting  for  worship  at  that 
place,  which  was  very  large  ;  although  things  appeared  very 
low,  as  to  the  hfe  and  virtue  of  truth,  both  among  Friends  and 
others,  and  lukewarmness  and  indifference  seeined  to  prevail, 
which  made  it  a  laborious  time  for  the  honest  travellers,  yet 
ability  was  afforded  to  discharge  myself  among  them  to  a  good 
degree  of  satisfaction,  and  peace  to  my  own  mind ;  and  we 
returned  that  evening  to  Newjwrt. 

The  yeaaly  meeting  closed  on  the  third  day  following ;  and 
although  strength  was  afforded  me  to  discharge  myself  in  the 


40 


JOURNAL  OP 


several  sittings  thereof,  both  for  worsliip  and  discipline,  in  a 
manner  productive  of  that  true  peace,  wliich  is  the  sure  reward 
of  a  faithful  discharge  of  duty,  yet  it  was,  for  the  most  part,  a 
dull  time,  and  the  spring  of  life  seemed  very  low ;  occasioned,  in 
part,  as  1  apprehended,  l^y  a  very  small  number  taking  upon 
them  the  whole  management  of  the  business,  and  thereby  shut- 
ting up  the  way  to  others,  and  preventing  the  free  ciiculation 
and  spreading  of  the  concern,  in  a  proper  manner,  on  the  minds 
of  Friends ;  which  I  have  often  found  to  be  of  very  hurtful 
tendency. 

On  fourth  day  morning  we  left  Newport,  and  rode  to  Ports- 
mouth, and  attended  their  preparative  meeting.  The  forepart 
of  the  meeting  for  worship  was  a  heavy  season,  in  which  it  was 
my  lot  to  be  baptized  for  the  dead;  but,  as  I  patiently  abode 
under  suffering  with  the  pure  seed,  the  Lord  was  pleased  to 
arise,  and  give  ability  to  come  forth,  and  sound  an  alarm  to  the 
lifeless;  whereby  liis  power  and  presence  were  experienced,  in 
good  measure,  to  cover  the  meeting,  to  the  comfort  and  encour- 
agement of  the  living  travellers ;  to  the  Lord  alone  be  the  praise, 
who  is  worthy  for  ever. 

The  next  day  we  passed  the  ferry,  and  rode  to  Tiverton,  on 
the  Main,  and  attended  a  meeting,  by  appointment,  which  was 
chiefly  made  up  of  people  not  of  our  society.  Through  the 
prevalence  of  divine  love,  after  a  season  of  close  labour,  strength 
was  afforded  me,  largely  to  open  the  truths  of  the  gospel,  in  a 
clear  manner,  greatly  to  my  own  satisfaction,  and  apparently  so 
to  most  or  all  present ;  for  which  my  spirit  was  truly  thankful. 
The  next  day  we  attended  a  meeting  at  Little  .Compton,  which 
was  large,  and  mostly  composed  of  people  of  other  persuasions. 
It  was  a  comfortable  edifying  season  ;  the  Lord  was  graciously 
pleased  to  l)e  near,  and  to  afford  wisdom  and  utterance  ;  many 
things  were  opened  in  a  doctrinal  way,  suitable  to  the  states  of 
those  present,  in  the  clear  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  and  with 
power ;  in  a  sense  whereof,  the  hving  were  made  to  rejoice,  and 
return  thankful  acknowledgments  for  sTich  unmerited  mercy. 

The  day  after,  we  attended  the  monthly  meeting  of  Friends 
of  Acoakset,  held  at  Westport ;  the  meeting  for  worship  was 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


41 


very  large,  and  like  the  former,  uiostly  composed  of  people  of  other 
persuasions.  Ability  was  aflbrdi^d  nic  largely  to  o|)en  the  nature 
of  true  worship,  and  to  show  the  fruitlessness  of  mere  outward 
performances  in  religion,  without  the  animating,  quickening 
virtue  of  the  word  of  eternal  life,  influencing  and  assisting  the 
soul  in  that  solenm  act.  The  meeting  for  discipline  was  small, 
and  very  few  of  those  present  appeared  to  be  under  right  quahfi- 
cations  to  be  active  in  the  afi'airs  of  the  Church  ;  consequently 
their  business  was  conducted  in  great  weakness,  and  in  a  way 
far  short  of  maintaining  the  proper  dignity  of  a  monthly  meet- 
ing. No  way  seemed  to  open  to  aflbrd  relief ;  as  the  disorder 
and  weakness  appeared  to  be  much  in  those,  who  assumed  the 
place  of  leaders  and  heads  in  the  meeting,  and  great  and  uncom- 
mon rawness  in  most  of  the  youth.  Under  the  consideration 
thereof,  my  mind  was  deeply  aflected  with  concern  for  their  own, 
and  the  testimony's,  sake. 

Our  next  appointment  was  at  Centre,  on  first  day  ;  and  pre- 
vious notice  having  been  given  of  our  coming,  the  meeting  was 
very  large ;  there  were  many  more  than  the  house  could  hold, 
and  it  was  a  precious  edifying  season.  We  then  rode  to  New- 
town, talcing  some  refreshment  on  our  way ;  and  attended  a 
meeting  at  the  fourth  horn*  in  the  afternoon,  which  was  large, 
and  proved  a  satisfactory  opportunity,  and  I  felt  sweet  peace  in 
this  day's  labom-. 

The  next  day  we  attended  the  monthly  meeting  of  Apone- 
gansett,  alias  Dartmouth,  which  proved  a  hard,  painful  season, 
things  being  much  out  of  order  with  Friends  there.  Most  of  tlie 
young  people,  and  some  of  those  that  were  older,  were  very  raw 
and  xmgoverned ;  insomuch  that  the  meeting  was  much  inter- 
rupted by  an  almost  continual  going  in  and  out,  although  fre- 
quently reproved  for  it.  It  rendered  the  prospect  very  afflicting, 
to  see  the  professors  of  truth  so  regardless  of  iheij-  own  reputation 
and  real  good,  as  well  as  of  the  good  and  reputation  of  society. 
I  left  this  place  with  a  degree  of  sadness,  on  account  of  the  pre- 
vailing darkness  and  ignorance  ;  yet  I  fell  peace  to  attend  my 
mind,  having  faithfully  discharged  myself  among  them. 

We  rode  after  meeting  to  New  Bedford,  in  company  with  our 


42 


JOURNAL  OP 


beloved  friend  Thomas  Rotch,  who  met.  us  at  this  place ;  and 
we  lodged  at  his  house,  wheie  we  foimd  a  cordial  reception,  and 
kind  entertainment  from  him  and  his  beloved  wife,  who  appeared 
to  be  hopeful  young  Friends.  The  next  day  we  attended  their 
monthly  meeting,  which  proved  a  very  comfortable,  edifying  sea- 
son. This  monthly  meeting  was  but  newly  settled,  and  Friends 
appeared  desirous  of  improvement.  There  were  a  number  of 
promising  young  Friends  in  this  place,  to  whom  my  spirit  was 
nearly  united,  and  a  sympathetic  travail  experienced  for  their 
growth  and  preservation.  My  mind  was  covered  with  much 
sweetness  in  the  course  of  this  meeting,  and  it  proved  a  time  of 
revival  to  my  spirit ;  having  experienced  much  depression  and 
discouragement  in  the  two  foregoing  monthly  meetings.  - 

The  next  day  we  rode  to  Long  Plain,  and  attended  a  meeting 
at  the  eleventh  hour,  which  proved,  througli  heavenly  help,  a 
comfortable,  edifying  season.    After  this  we  rode  back  to  Accush- 
net,  and  attended  a  mooting  at  the  fourth  hour  that  afternoon,  in 
which  I  found  it  my  business  to  set  the  people  an  example  of 
silence ;  and  returned  that  evening  to  our  lodgings  at  New  Bed- 
ford.   The  next  day  we  embarked  for  Nantucket,  and  arrived 
there  before  night,  having  sailed  about  sixty  miles  in  our  way 
thither.    We  took  our  lodgings  at  the  house  of  our  kind  friend 
Samuel  Rodman,  and  stayed  on  the  island  several  days,  in  which 
time  we  attended  their  monthly  meeting,  and  a  meeting  of 
Ministers  and  Elders  belonging  thereto ;  and  . two  meetings  on 
the  first  day  of  the  week.    After  this,  on  second  and  third  day, 
their  quarterly  meeting  was  held,  and  on  fourth  day  I  was  at 
their  meeting  held  in  the  middle  of  the  week,  in  the  north  meet- 
ing-house.   Although  things  in  general  were  much  out  of  order 
with  many  of  the  professors  of  truth  in  this  island,  and  the  pure 
seed  of  the  kingdom  much  oppressed,  and  gloominess  seemed  to 
spread  over  the  camp,  yet  the  Lord  Almighty,  in  the  riches  of  his 
love,  was  pleased  to  furnish  ability  to  sound  an  alarm  to  the 
dead,  and  to  press  upon  the  lukewarm  and  careless  professors, 
the  necessity  of  using  all  diligence  to  make  their  calling  and 
election  sure,  while  time  and  opportunity  were  yet  graciously 
afforded  :  and  also  to  administer  Gilead's  balm,  to  bind  up  the 


KLIAS  HICKS.  43 

broken-hearted,  and  (o  encourage  the  failhfiil  labourers  in  the 
family,  to  a  perseverance  in  failh  and  patience.  To  a  remnant 
t)f  these,  my  spirit  was  nearly  iniited  in  the  real  bond  of  Christian 
fellowship,  and  our  hearts  \yere  filled  with  gratitude  to  the  God 
and  Father  of  all  oin*  sine  mercies,  that  he  was  graciously  pleased 
to  distil  the  heavenly  dew  for  lefreshing  the  weary  travellers,  and 
crowning  the  several  meetings  with  the  glorious  diadem  of  his 
holy  presence ;  to  liini  alone  be  the  jiiaise,  for  he  is  worthy  for 
ever. 

On  fifth  day,  the  4th  of  7th  month,  we  left  the  island,  and 
crossed  over  to  Falmouth,  about  forty  miles,  by  water  ;  after 
landing,  we  travelled  about  four  miles  to  the  house  of  our  friend 
Richard  Lake,  and  lodged.  The  next  day  we  attended  their 
monthly  meeting,  which  proved  a  time  of  deep  exercise  to  my 
spirit;  occasioned,  as  I  believed,  by  the  dead  and  lifeless  state  of 
the  professors  of  truth  in  that  meeting.  I  sat  through  the  meet- 
uig  for  worship  in  silence,  imder  a  great  weight  of  death  and 
suffering,  and  saw  no  way  of  relief  imtil  near  the  close  of  the 
meeting  for  discipline,  when  a  prospect  opened  in  my  mind,  with 
a  degree  of  light,  to  i)ropose  to  Friends,  that  the  men  and  women 
should  sit  together  again  at  the  close  of  their  business.  This 
proposition  was  agreed  to  by  Friends,  and  way  was  made  to  clear 
my  mind,  in  a  good  degree,  amongst  them,  of  the  burden  I  had 
sat  under,  in  a  close  searching  communication  of  my  prospect 
respecting  their  state,  as  it  opened  in  the  view  of  my  mind.  This 
appeared  to  have  considerable  effect  on  the  minds  of  some,  yet 
some  others  appeared  too  much  in  that  state,  of  all  others  the 
most  to  be  dreaded,  of  self-justification,  and  of  being  righteous  in 
their  own  eyes,  which  rendered  them  indisposed  to  improvement. 

I  left  that  place  the  day  following,  with  some  weight  on  my 
spirit,  under  a  sense  of  the  low  state  of  things  among  them,  and 
rode  to  Yarmouth,  and  attended  a  meeting  there  the  next  day, 
which  proved  a  satisfactory  season.  The  three  following  days 
we  passed  on  through  Sandwich,  Pembroke,  and  Boston,  to  Sa- 
lem ;  having  meetings  at  Sandwich  and  Pembroke,  both,  I  trust, 
profitable  edifying  seasons  to  some  present.  We  reached  Salem 
on  fifth  day,  the  11th  of  7th  month,  just  in  time  to  attend  their 


44 


JOURNAT,  OF 


monthly  meeting,  having  rotle  diligently  the  morning  and  after- 
noon before  to  accomplish  it ;  and  had  a  pretty  satisfactory  time 
with  Friends  at  this  meeting.  After  this  we  rode  back  to  Lynn, 
and  the  next  day  attended  an  appointed  meeting  there,  which 
proved  a  large,  favoured,  and  I  tnist,  profitable  meeting  to  many, 
not  soon  to  be  forgotten  ;  there  were  a  considerable  number  of 
hopeful  young  people  in  this  place.  In  the  afternoon,  we  had  a 
precious  opportimity  at  a  Friend's  house,  where  there  were  a 
number  of  young  people  and  others  collected ;  it  was  a  heart- 
tendering  season.  For  this,  with  other  favours  conferred  from 
time  to  time,  my  heart  was  made  truly  thankfiil  to  the  Father  of 
mercies,  and  God  of  all  comfort,  Avho  is  over  all,  blessed  for  ever. 

We  proceeded  the  next  day  to  Almsbury,  and  lodged  with  our 
friend  Ezekiel  Jones,  and  the  next  morning  rode  back  to  New- 
bury, and  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  the  eleventh  horn.  Al- 
though the  meeting  was  small.  Friends  being  much  reduced 
there,  yet  some  of  the  neighbouring  people  coming  in  we  had  a 
precious  opportunity  together,  to  our  mutual  comfort ;  the  way 
of  life  and  salvation  being  clearly  opened  to  them,  in  the  demon- 
stration of  the  spirit,  and  with  power  ;  for  which  my  spirit  was 
reverently  thankful.  We  rode  back  and  attended  a  meeting  at 
Almsbury  that  afternoon,  at  the  fourth  hour  ;  a  large  number  of 
those,  who  were  not  members  of  our  society,  assembled  with  the 
few  Friends  of  that  place,  insomuch  that  the  house  could  not  con- 
tain them.  It  proved  a  painfid  season,  by  reason  of  the  prevailing 
death  and  darkness  that  seemed  to  spread,  not  only  over  Friends, 
but  the  assembly  in  general.  My  spirit  was  brought  into  a  state 
of  deep  suffering  and  baptism,  but  as  I  patiently  endured  the 
conflict,  way  was  made,  and  ability  afforded,  to  open  to  them 
their  states  and  conditions,  with  the  necessity  of  being  redeemed 
therefrom,  and  the  way  whereby  it  must  be  efiected.  The  peo- 
ple were  generally  solid,  and  I  trust  it  was  a  profitable  season  to 
many  minds  present. 

We  returned  that  evening  to  the  house  of  our  friend  Ezekiel 
Jones,  and  the  next  day  proceeded  to  Newtown,  where  we  had  a 
meeting,  which  proved,  I  trust,  an  instructive  edifjang  season  to 
some  present ;  although  the  life  of  religion  appeared  very  low  in 


EBIAS  HICKS. 


that  place.    We  lodged  here,  mul  the  day  following  we  went  to 
Halestown  alias  Wear,  and  tocjk  our  lodgings  at  the  house  of  our 
friend  Ebenezer  Breed.    We  attended  their  monthly  ntieeting 
next  day ;  things  in  general  appeared  in  a  low  state  with  Friends 
here,  much  of  which  weakness  I  apprehended  arose  from  these 
two  causes.    First,  from  a  forward  spirit,  wliich  appeared  very 
predominant  in  some  member.-!,  who  were  not  under  a  right 
qualification  to  be  active  in  meetings  for  discipline,  not  having 
their  spirits  sanctified :  and  their  unseasoned  ofierings  and  for- 
ward activity  were  a  great  burden  to  the  living  concerned  mem- 
bers, being  often  opposed  to  the  right  exercise  of  discipline,  which 
caused  divisions  and  })arties  in  the  meeting :  Secondly,  those 
Friends  who  seemed  to  have  the  cause  of  truth  at  heart,  for 
want  of  dwelhng  enough  in  the  root,  and  in  that  perfect  love 
that  casts  out  all  fear,  were  led  from  an  apprehension  of  necessity, 
in  order  to  keep  down  those  forward  spirits,  to  make  use  of  some 
undue  methods  in  the  exercise  of  discipline.    This,  originating 
in  fear,  and  being  the  result  of  human  contrivance,  instead  of 
subjecting,  had  a  tendency  to  strengthen  them,  in  their  opposition  : 
for  notliing  can  promote  the  Lord's  work  but  his  o\^n  peaceable 
spirit  and  wisdom,  and  this  stands  out  of  all  human  consultation 
and  contrivance,  which,  when  given  way  to,  although  ever  so 
well  intended,  always  mar  his  work.    I  was  much  exercised, 
both  in  the  meeting  for  worship,  and  that  for  discipline  ;  and  I 
was  helped  to  administer  much  counsel  and  advice  for  Friends' 
improvement  in  general,  and  particularly  that  those  before  men- 
tioned difiSculties  might  be  removed  ;  and  felt  much  peace  in  my 
labour. 

The  next  day,  being  the  5th  of  the  week,  and  19th  of  7th 
month,  we  rode  to  Epping,  about  foiiy-two  miles,  and  lodged  with 
our  firiend  Joshua  Fulsome,  an  approved  minister,  and  attended 
Friends'  meeting  there  the  following  day.  In  the  forepart  of  this 
meeting,  my  mind  was  reduced  into  such  a  state  of  great  weak- 
ness and  depression,  that  my  faith  was  almost  ready  to  fail,  which 
produced  great  searchings  of  heart,  so  that  I  was  led  to  call  in 
question  all  that  I  had  ever  before  experienced.  In  this  state  of 
doubting,  I  was  ready  to  wish  myself  at  home,  from  an  appre- 


46 


JOURNAI-  OF 


hension  that  I  should  only  expose  myself  to  reproach,  and  wound 
the  cause  I  was  embarked  in  ;  for  the  heavens  seemed  like  brass, 
and  the  earth  as  iron ;  such  coldness  and  hardness,  I  thought 
could  scarcely  have  ever  been  experienced  before  by  any  creature, 
so  great  was  the  depth  of  my  baptism  at  (his  time  ;  nevertheless, 
as  I  endeavoured  to  quiet  my  mind,  in  this  coniiicting  dispen- 
sation, and  be  resigned  to  my  allotment,  however  distressing, 
towards  the  latter  part  of  the  meeting  a  ray  of  hght  broke  through 
the  surrounding  darkness,  in  which  the  Shepherd  of  Israel  was 
pleased  to  arise,  and  by  the  light  of  liis  glorious  countenance,  to 
scatter  those  clouds  of  opposition.  Then  ability  was  received, 
and  utterance  given,  to  speak  of  his  marvellous  works  in  the 
redemption  of  souls,  and  to  open  the  way  of  life  and  salvation, 
and  the  mysteries  of  his  glorious  kingdom,  which  are  hid  from 
the  wise  and  prudent  of  this  world,  and  revealed  only  unto  those, 
who  are  reduced  into  the  state  of  little  children  and  babes  in 
Christ.  It  proved  a  time  of  renewed  strength  and  consolation  to 
myself,  and  I  trust  it  was  so  to  many  present.  Renowned  for 
ever  be  the  name  of  the  Lord,  who  hath  his  way  in  the  cloud, 
and  in  the^  thick  darkness,  and  who  can  cause  the  light  to  shine 
out  of  obscuiity,  wlien  he  pleaseth,  for  the  comfort  and  help  of 
his  devoted  childien,  and  cause  their  darkness  to  Ijecome  as  the 
noonday. 

We  passed  on  from  thence  through  Dover  to  Berwick,  where 
the  monthly  meeting  for  Dover  was  held  the  next  day.  It 
proved  a  very  exercising  season,  great  weakness  attending  the 
meeting,  on  account  of  the  same  rending,  dividing  spirit  getting 
in  among  Friends  there,  mentioned  at  the  foregoing  monthly 
meeting  at  Wear.  It  had  made  great  havoc  among  them  ;  a 
great  number  of  members  had  been  separated,  and  others  were 
about  to  be  separated,  by  minutes  of  denial  from  the  monthly 
meeting.  I  had  some  close  labom*  with  them,  not  oidy  by  en- 
deavoming  to  stir  up  and  warn  the  careless  and  refractory  mem- 
bers ;  but  I  also  found  it  necessary  to  caution  and  warn  those, 
who  had  the  chief  management  of  discipline.  I  believed  they 
had  too  much  departed  from  the  meek  spirit  of  Jesus,  in  ordering 
the  affairs  of  truth  ;  and  instead  of  giving  the  right  portion  of 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


meat  in  due  season  to  their  fellow  members,  had  given  way  to  a 
spirit  of  impatience,  and  therefore  did  not  ytand  wholly  clear  of 
beating  and  abusing  theii'  lellow  servants.  O  how  necessary  it 
is  for  all  those,  who  think  themselves  called  to  be  active  in  the 
disjcipiine  of  the  Chinch,  to  know  their  own  spirits  fully  subjected, 
that  nothing  of  the  uniiiortilied  will  of  the  creature  may  be  found 
acting  in  the  work  of  the  Lord ;  oi*  mixing  its  own  fonvard 
unsanctified  zeal,  with  tliat  true  and  holy  fervoiu"  of  soul,  which 
animates,  cjuickens,  and  constrains,  by  the  mere  force  and  influ- 
ence of  the  pure  love  of  Christ,  our  holy  head,  and  heavenly 
high  priest,  from  whence  it  derives  all  its  power  and  authority, 
in  putting  right  discipline  in  practice,  and  laying  true  judgment 
on  the  head  of  transgressors,  and  jefiactory  members.  We  tar- 
ried here  the  next  day,  it  being  the  first  of  the  week.  The  meet- 
ing was  pretty  large,  and  was  composed  of  Friends  and  others, 
and  favoured  with  the  reachings  forth  of  heavenly  regard,  con- 
soling many  hearts,  and  refreshing  the  weary  travellers  ;  of 
these,  there  appeared  to  be  a  small  remnant  preserved  in  almost 
every  place.  Tlie  meeting  ended  with  humble  supphcation,  and 
praise  to  the  great  Author  of  every  blessing,  who  is  over  all, 
worthy  for  ever. 

The  next  day,  the  22d  of  7th  month,  we  proceeded  on  towards 
Falmouth,  at  Casco  Bay,  attendmg  a  meeting  at  Portland,  in 
t-ur  way  thither.  On  fourth  day  we  attended  the  monthly  meet- 
ing of  Falmouth,  and,  on  sixth  day,  the  monthly  meeting  of 
Durham  ;  they  were  in  general  satisfactory  seasons.  The  next 
day  we  rode  to  Georgetown,  and  attended  a  meeting  appointed 
there  at  the  eleventh  horn-.  After  this  we  proceeded  on  to  the 
widow  Gardner's,  in  a  town  called  Bordingham  ;  in  getting  to 
this  place,  we  had  to  cross  the  great  river  Kennebeck  twice.  The 
next  day,  being  the  first  of  the  week,  and  the  28th  of  7th  month, 
a  large  meeting  was  held  there  by  our  appointment,  there  being 
no  meetkig  in  that  place.  It  was  a  tune  of  hard  labour  for  a 
season,  by  reason  of  the  indifference  and  ignorance  of  many 
present ;  nevertheless,  aljility  was  afforded  to  discharge  myself 
among  them,  to  pretty  good  satisfaction,  and,  I  beheve,  generally 


48 


JOURNAL  OP 


SO  to  those  present ;  and,  I  trust,  by  some,  the  season  will  not 
soon  be  forgotten. 

We  went  by  water  that  afternoon  up  the  aforesaid  river,  about 
seven  miles,  to  the  house  of  our  friend  George  Ramsdale,  having 
sent  our  horses  there  the  night  before.  The  next  day  we  passed 
on  to  Vassalborough,  and  the  day  following  rode  up  the  river  to 
Fairfield,  and  attended  a  meeting,  and  returned  to  Vassalborough 
that  afternoon.  The  next  day  Ave  attended  Friends'  meeting 
there,  which  proved  a  heavy  dull  season,  till  near  the  close,  when 
abiUty  was  afforded  me  to  clear  myself  among  them,  in  a  close 
searching  communication,  which  appeared  to  have  a  good  effect, 
and  the  meeting  ended  well. 

We  passed  on  that  afternoon  twenty  miles  to  Winthrop,  and 
the  next  day  had  a  meeting  there.  After  this  we  rode  to  Greene, 
and  from  thence  to  Lewistown,  having  a  meeting  at  each  place  ; 
both  precious  heart-tendering  seasons,  especially  the  latter,  which 
was  attended  by  a  large  number  of  young  people,  many  of  whom 
were  greatly  affected  by  the  power  of  tmth.  We  left  them  in 
a  tender  loving  frame  of  mind,  and  rode  that  afternoon  to  Dur- 
ham. The  next  day,  being  the  first  of  the  week,  and  4th  of 
8th  month,  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  there,  in  which  I  was 
favoured  to  open  many  things  in  a  doctrinal  way,  there  being 
many  present,  who  were  not  in  membership  with  Friends.  I  was 
likewise  led  to  speak  largely  of  the  good  effects  of  pure  love. 

We  passed  on  fiom  thence  through  Falmouth  to  Portland, 
where  we  had  a  meeting  appointed  for  the  town's  people ;  it  was 
held  in  their  court-house,  and  was,  through  heavenly  help,  an 
instructive  season.  Many  doctrines  of  the  gospel  were  clearly 
opened  ;  and  the  unsomid  doctrines  of  original  sin  and  predesti- 
nation, also  the  schemes  of  the  Universalists,  Atheists,  and 
Deists,  were  confuted  fi-om  scripture  and  reason.  And  a  pressing 
exhortation  was  extended  to  all  present,  to  attend  to  the  leadings 
of  the  spirit  of  Christ  in  their  own  hearts,  so  as  to  be  sensible  of 
their  fallen  condition,  and  to  become  acquainted  with  the  neces- 
sity, means,  and  manner  of  theii'  salvation.  Truth  was  over  all, 
and  I  had  great  peace  m  my  labour. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


49 


We  returned  that  evening  to  Falmouth,  and  the  next  day 
went  to  Windham,  and  attended  a  meeting,  wherein  I  was  led 
to  be  an  example  of  silence.  After  this  we  rode  to  the  house  of 
our  friend  John  Robinson,  and  lodged  ;  and  a  prospect  opening 
for  paying  another  visit  to  Friends  at  Wear,  we  accordingly  pro- 
ceeded, attending  meetings  in  our  way,  at  Gorham,  Lymington, 
New  Sandwich,  and  Gilmantown,  aU  satisfactory  seasons ;  and 
reached  Wear  in  time  to  attend  their  monthly  meeting.  Although 
the  same  dividing  spirit  was  still  discernible  among  them,  which 
produced  much  weakness,  yet  we  had  pretty  good  satisfaction  in 
our  visit.  We  proceeded  from  thence  through  Pittsfield,  and 
Lee,  in  our  way  to  Dover,  having  a  meeting  at  each  place,  and 
reached  Dover  in  time  to  attend  their  monthly  meeting,  held  on 
seventh  day,  the  17th  of  8th  month.  Although  discipline  is  at 
a  low  ebb  with  Friends  here,  yet,  through  divine  condescension, 
I  hope  the  season-was  profitable  and  instructive  to  many  present. 
We  were  at  their  first  day  meeting  in  the  forenoon  ;  and,  in  the 
afternoon,  had  a  satisfactory  meeting  at  Kittery  ;  and,  on  sfecond 
day,  we  attended  meetings  at  Madersborough,  and  Rochester, 
both,  I  trust,  profitable  seasons.  On  third  day  we  rode  to  Hamp- 
ton, and  the  next  day  had  a  comfortable  meeting  with  Friends  of 
that  place ;  and  from  thence  we  returned  to  Salem,  and  attended 
a  meeting.  Then  we  proceeded  to  Lynn,  and  attended  their 
forenoon  and  afternoon  meetings  on  first  day.  On  second  day 
we  rode  to  Boston,  and  attended  a  meeting  at  the  eleventh  hour ; 
although  the  meeting  was  but  small,  there  being  but  very  few 
Friends  in  that  place,  and  only  a  small  numljer  of  the  town's 
people  came  in,  yet  we  had  pretty  good  satisfaction  in  giving 
them  this  opportunity,  and  way  opened  to  clear  ourselves  among 
them.  After  this  we  passed  on,  having  a  meeting  at  Taimton, 
and  then  attended  Providence  monthly  meeting,  held  at  Smith- 
field  ;  things  appeared  but  low  with  Friends  of  this  monthly 
meeting,  their  attention  Ijeing  too  much  turned  to  worldly  con- 
cerns. We  next  attended  tlie  monthly  meeting  held  in  the  Upper 
part  of  Smithfield,  being  about  nine  miles  from  (he  latter;  this 
was  in  general  a  satisfactory  season  ;  and  the  following  day  we 
attended  Uxbridge  monthly  meeting,  to  good  satisfaction. 


50 


JOURNAL  OV 


Our  next  appointment  was  at  Freetown,  the  first  of  the  week, 
and  the  1st  of  9th  month,  and  was  a  satisfactory  opportunity ; 
and,  on  second  da) ,  we  attended  the  monthly  meeting  at  Swan- 
sey ;  here  things  appeared  much  out  of  order,  and  in  alow  state  ; 
but,  through  divine  favour,  ability  was  given  me,  to  clear  my  mind 
among  them,  in  a  way,  that  I  hope,  will  tend  to  their  profit. 
From  thence  we  passed  on  to  Providence,  where  we  had  a  satis- 
factory meeting.  The  four  following  days  we  had  meetings  at 
Cranston,  Greenwich,  Foster  and  Scituate  ;  all  satisfactory  meet- 
ings, particularly  the  last ;  it  was  an  open  edifying  season,  many 
hearts  being  comforted  by  the  power  of  truth,  which  prevailed 
over  all,  and  was  cause  of  deep  tiiankfulnes.'^  to  my  mind.  Our 
next  meeting  was  at  Wankcg,  on  first  day,  the  8th  of  9th 
month  ;  it  was  a  profitable  edifying  season.  Then  passing  on,  we 
had  meetings  as  they  were  laid  out  for  us,  on  second  day  at  Glou- 
cester, on  third  day  at  Douglass,  and  on  fourth  day  at  Smithfield. 
The  last  was  a  large  meeting,  and  many  things  were  opened  in 
a  cle'ar  manner ;  confuting  that  dark  belief  in  election  and 
reprobation,  and  the  impossibility  of  falling  from  grace.  Also 
showing  the  necessity  of  regeneration,  through  the  operation  of 
the  one  essential  baptism  of  the  Holy  Ghost ;  and  that  all  were 
the  objects  of  universal,  and  saving  grace,  and  how  all  might  be 
saved  by  it,  if  they  did  not  reject  it  to  their  own  destruction. 

The  next  day  we  attended  a  meeting  at  Mendliam  ;  it  was  a 
comfortable  season  to  myself,  and  I  believe,  to  most  or  all  present, 
and  was  cause  of  thankful  remembrance.  From  thence  we  pass- 
ed on,  having  meetings  at  Northbridge,  Bolton  and  Leicester  ;  at 
this  place  we  also  attended  a  burial,  and  had  a  favoured  opportu- 
nity with  the  people.  Then  we  went  to  Richmond,  and  attended 
their  monthly  meeting,  where  things  were  much  out  of  order, 
and  the  meeting  was  small,  and  in  a  weak  situation.  I  cleared 
my  mind  in  a  plain  way  among  them,  and  found  peace  therein. 

This  was  the  last  meeting  we  attended  in  the  compass  of 
Rhode  Island  yearly  meeting.  Then  we  passed  on  into  the 
state  of  Vermont,  in  order  to  visit  Friends  of  our  own  yearly 
meeting,  who  resided  in  that  state.  We  reached  Sharon,  in  tune 
to  attend  their  meeting  on  fiist  day,  the  22d  of  9th  month ;  and 


EMAS  HICKS. 


51 


the  next  day  attended  a  meeting  at  Strafford,  which  was  a  dull 
heavy  time,  in  which  I  found  it  my  jJace  to  he  silent.  The  uext 
day  Ave  crossed  Connecticut  river  to  the  town  of  Hanover,  and 
attended  a  meeting  in  a  school-house,  no  Friends  Uving  in  those 
parts.  It  was  a  satisfactory  season.  We  lodged  Avith  a  man 
attached  to  Friends,  of  the  name  of  John  Williams,  Avho,  Avith  his 
wife,  were  convinced  of  the  principles  of  truth ;  yet  found  it  a 
great  trial,  faithfull}^  to  take  up  the  cross,  as  they  lived  among  a 
people  much  opposed  to  them  in  that  respect.  We  left  them  the 
next  day  in  a  tender  frame  of  mind,  and  I  have  a  hope  they  will 
improve.  We  returned  over  the  riA'er  and  attended  a  meeting  in 
the  toAvn  of  NorAvich,  at  the  fourth  liour  of  tire  afternoon,  Avhich 
was  a  small,  but  favoured  meeting.  We  lodged  that  night  Avith 
a  person  who  had  requested  to  be  joined  to  Friends,  of  the  name 
of  Zebulon  Huntington.  The  next  morning  Ave  retuined  to 
Sharon,  and  attended  a  meeting  at  the  eleventh  hour,  it  being 
their  usual  meeting  day,  which  was  a  faA^oured  season.  The  next 
day  Ave  attended  a  meeting  in  the  northeast  part  of  the  toAvn  of 
Strafford,  among  those  not  of  our  society.  After  this  we  set  forAvard 
for  Lake  Champlain,  and  got  to  Fenisburg  just  in  time  to  attend 
their  meeting  on  first  day,  the  29th  of  9th  month,  Avhich  I  sat  in 
silence ;  and  returned  after  meeting  to  the  house  of  our  friend 
Nicholas  Holmes  and  lodged.  The  next  day  Ave  rode  to  our  friend 
Cornelius  Halbert's,  and  attended  a  meeting  at  the  fourth  hour, 
which  proved  a  comfortable  season  ;  it  Avas  mostly  composed  of 
those  not  in  membership  Avith  us. 

From  thence  we  proceeded  to  Grand  Isle,  Avhich  is  situated 
nearly  in  the  middle  of  Lake  Champlain,  having  a  meeting  at 
Wiltston,  in  our  way  thithei'.  We  had  a  comfortable  meeting  at 
our  lodgings  at  this  place,  and  then  crossed  over  by  water  to  the 
west  side  of  the  lake,  to  the  riAer  Sable.  We  AA  alked  on  foot 
about  six  miles  near  this  river,  to  the  house  of  om"  friend  Richard 
Keese,  where  we  had  .a  satisfactory  .opportunity,  in  a  meeting 
appointed  in  his  house.  It  Avas  a  newly  settled  place,  and  no 
meeting  of  Friends  within  forty  miles.  We  returned  then  to 
Grand  Isle,  and  the  next  day,  tlie  first  of  the  week,  and  the  6th 
of  10th  month,  aa'c  attended  another  meeting  there,  and  then 


52 


JOURNAL  OP 


returned  to  Monkton,  to  the  house  of  our  kind  friend  Nicholas 
Holmes,  who  had  accompanied  us  in  this  little  toju"  to  the  north- 
ward. We  rested  the  next  day,  and  the  day  following  had  an 
appointed  meeting  at  the  house  of  my  kinsman  Stephen  Haight. 
On  fifth  day  we  had  a  comfortable  opportunity  with  Friends 
here,  at  theii-  preparative  meeting.  After  this  we  took  leave  of 
our  friends  of  this  place,  and  rode  to  Vergennes,  and  lodged  at  our 
friend  Thomas  Robinson's  ;  and  the  next  day  proceeded  on  our 
way  to  Queensbuiy,  where  we  arrived  on  seventh  day  evening. 
The  day  after,  the  first  of  the  week,  and  the  13  th  of  10th  month, 
we  attended  two  meetings  ;  the  first,  at  Friends'  meeting-house, 
at  the  usual  time ;  and  the  latter,  at  a  Friend's  house,  where  a 
considerable  number  of  people,  who  were  not  in  profession  with 
us,  assembled. 

On  second  day  we  rode  to  Easton,  and  lodged  at  our  friend 
William  Coffin's  ;  on  thud  day,  it  being  rainy  weather,  we  rest- 
ed ;  ■  and  on  fourth  day,  we  attended  the  preparative  meeting  of 
Ministers  and  Elders  for  Easton  monthly  meeting.  On  fifth 
day  their  monthly  meeting  began,  which  held  three  days,  and,  in 
general,  was  conducted  to  good  satisfaction.  I  felt  near  sympa- 
thy with  Friencte  of  this  place,  as  their  monthly  meetmg  was 
bordering  on  an  extensive  newly  settled  country,  to  which  Friends 
were  mo\ing  from  various  parts.  It  made  the  bounds  of  their 
meeting  very  wide,  and  the  members  much  scattered  from  one 
another  ;  and  caused  much  labour  and  exercise  to  the  concerned 
part  of  the  meeting,  in  attending  to,  and  conducting  the  affairs 
of  truth.  It  likewise  occasioned  them  to  have,  almost  continually, 
a  great  load  of  business  before  the  monthly  meeting.  The  day 
after,  being  the  first  of  the  w  eek,  we  attended  a  meeting  at  Sara- 
toga. It  WRs  a  large  comfortable  edifying  meeting,  and  very 
refreshing  to  my  spirit,  which  had  been  much  exhausted  by  the 
exercise  and  labour  of  the  three  foregoing  days. 

In  the  course  of  this  w^eek  we  attended  meetings  at  Greenfield, 
Ballstown,  Troy,  Albany,  and  Coeman's  Patent ;  and  reached 
Hudson  on  seventh  day  evening.  The  next  day,  the  first  of  the 
week,  and  27th  of  10th  month,  we  attended  their  morning  meet- 
ing, and  then  proceeded  on,  being  desirous  of  reaching  the  quar- 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


53 


terly  fneeting  at  Oblong,  which  began  on  third  day.  We  arrived 
there  on  second  day  evening,  where  we  met  w\ih  several  beloved 
friends  from  near  oiu-  own  homes,  to  our  mutual  comfort.  After 
the  close  of  tliis  meetmg,  we  proceeded  directly  home ;  where  I 
arrived  the  2d  of  11th  month,  and  found  my  dear  Avife  and 
family  in  a  pretty  good  state  of  health,  to  our  mutual  rejoicing. 
I  had  renewed  cause  to  bless  the  name  of  the  Lord  for  his  pre- 
serving providence  and  mercy,  who  is  over  all,  worthy  for  ever. 

I  was  from  home  in  this  journey  about  five  months,  and  tra- 
velled by  land  and  water  about  two  thousand  two  hundred  and 
eighty-thi'ee  miles  ;  having  visited  all  the  meetings  of  Friends  in 
the  New  England  states,  and  many  meetmgs  amongst  those  of 
other  professions  ;  and  also  visited  many  meetings,  among 
Friends  and  others,  in  the  upper  part  of  our  own  yearly  meeting; 
and  found  real  peace  in  my  labours. 


54 


JOURNAL  OP 


CHAPTER  III. 


Visit  to  the  Meetings  of  Ministers  and  Eiders,  1795. — Visit  to  Friends  in  Penn- 
sylvania, New-Jersey,  Delaware,  Maryland,  and  Virginia,  1798. 

On  tlie  26tli  of  7th  month,  1795,  I  left  home  m  order  to 
ioin  a  committee  of  Friend*;,  appointed  by  the  yearly  meeting, 
of  Ministers  and  Elders  this  year,  to  visit  the  quarterly  and  pce- 
parative  meetings,  and  Friends  individually,  in  those  stations, 
throughout  the  yearly  meeting.  A  concern  having  arisen  in 
that  meeting,  occasioned  by  the  many  obvious  deficiences  and 
departures  amongst  us  as  a  people,  fiom  the  purity  and  simplicity 
of  our  holy  profession,  a  minute  was  issued  and  recommended 
to  the  inferior  meetings,  setting  forth  the  ground  of  tliis  concern, 
and  for  the  purpose  of  stirring  up  and  encouraging  Friends  to 
a  diligent  search  and  labour,  that  the  many  hurtful  disorders 
might  be  removed,  and  a  right  reformation,  from  those  prevailing 
weaknesses,  effectually  take  place. 

This  being  the  first  day  of  the  week,  I  sat  Avith  Friends  in 
theu"  meeting  at  Westbury  ;  and  although  it  was  a  dull  time  in 
the  forepart,  yet,  through  the  comforting  assistance  of  heavenly 
help,  it  was  made,  I  beUeve,  an  edifying  season  to  many  minds. 
I  crossed  the  Sound  that  afternoon  to  New  RocheUe,  and  the  next 
morning  met  some  of  the  committee  at  the  house  of  our  fi-iend 
Hugh  Judge.  We  had  an  opportunity  with  his  family,  which 
proved  a  refreshing  season,  it  being  evident  that  he,  and  his  wife, 
joined  heartily  with  the  concern.  We  visited  several  other  fami- 
lies that  day,  and  had  the  satisfaction  to  believe,  that  the  concern 
and  labour  were  owned  by  the  Head  of  the  Church,  and,  we 
beUeve,  will  be  blessed  to  many. 


ELIAS  HICKS, 


55 


The  next  day  the  quarterly  meeting  at  Purchase  began,  and 
through  the  several  sittings  was  made,  I  trust,  a  profitable  season  ; 
it  ended  on  fifth  day.  The  lu^xt  day  we  had  ojiportunities  with 
two  families,  which,  through  the  fresh  extendings  of  Jioly  help, 
proved  very  instractive  and  encouraging.  After  this  we  set  out 
for  Nine  Partners,  their  quarterly  meeting  coming  in  the  ensuing 
week.  I  reached  there  on  first  day  morning,  the  2d  of  8th 
month,  and  attendc'd  their  meeting,  which  proved  a  heart  search- 
ing season,  it  being  too  manifest  that  many  professors  had  suf- 
fered their  minds  to  be  captivated  by  a  worldly  spirit,  which  had 
introduced  great  death  and  darkness  into  our  meetings,  to  the 
grief  and  trouble  of  the  honest-hearted.  But  help  was  graciously 
afforded  me  to  set  forth,  in  a  plain  manner,  the  danger  attending 
such  a  departure  fiom  the  life  and  power  of  religion ;  and  to 
stir  up  also  the  lukewarm  from  their  supineness  and  ease,  and 
enforce  the  necessity  of  a  more  full  dedication  of  their  hearts,  and 
their  all,  to  the  Lord's  scnice. 

The  next  day  we  attended  the  preparative  meeting  of  Minis- 
ters and  Elders  at  the  Creek,  in  which  much  weakness  was 
apparent.  The  three  folloAving  days  we  attended  the  quarterly 
meeting  at  Nine  Partners ;  on  the  last  of  which,  I  was  fa- 
voured to  relieve  my  mind  among  them,  in  a  season  of  close 
searching  labour,  by  way  of  communication.  After  this  we  pro- 
ceeded towards  Easton,  to  attend  the  quarterly  meeting  there, 
and  to  visit  the  families  of  Ministers  and  Elders  within  the  com- 
pass of  that  meeting,  which  we  performed  in  about  a  week. 
Although  weakness  .seemed  to  abound  witli  Friends  there, 
yet  we  were  comforted  in  believing,  that  the  visit  had  a  profita- 
ble effect,  and  afforded  encouragement,  and  a  renewal  of  strength, 
to  the  sincere-hearted. 

1  On  seventh  day,  the  15th  of  8th  month,  we  rode  to  East 
Hoosac,  and  the  next  day  attended  Friends'  meeting  there,  which 
was  large,  many  people  of  other  societies  attending.  It  proved 
an  open  satisfactory  time,  and  ended  under  a  renewed  sense  of 
the  merciful  extendings  of  holy  condescending  love ;  for  which, 
I  tnist,  many  minds  were  made  humbly  thankfid.  The  after- 
noon and  next  morning  were  passed  in  visiting  the  faraiUes  of 


56 


JOURNAL  OF 


Ministers  and  Elders ;  and  although  things  were  not  all  well 
among  them,  yet  we  had  satisfaction  and  peace  m  our  own 
minds,  by  a  faithful  discharge  of  the  trust  committed  to  us. 
The  next  day  we  rode  to  New  Britain,  and  visited  a  Friend  in 
the  ministry  there,  he  being  the  only  select  member  in  that  meet- 
ing. From  thence  we  passed  on  to  Kline-Kiln,  where  there  was 
likewise  but  one  member  of  the  select  meeting,  an  Elder,  whom 
we  visited.  We  then  went  to  Coeman's  Patent,  where  there  were 
three  select  members,  to  whom  we  paid  a  satisfactory  visit,  and 
then  proceeded  to  the  city  of  Hudson.  The  evening  after  our 
arrival,  and  the  next  day,  we  had  opportunities  with  the  Ministers 
and  Elders  of  that  place.  They  proved  seasons  of  heart-searching 
labour,  things  appearing  much  out  of  order  with  some  of  them ; 
and,  among  these,  there  was  a  disposition  apparent,  to  lay  waste 
good  order  in  the  Church.  O  the  great  want  of  honest,  faithful 
labourers  in  the  vineyard. 

After  our  services  were  finished  here,  we  left  them  with  the 
answer  of  peace,  and  rode  that  afternoon  to  Nine  Partners.  The 
next  day  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Stanford,  which  proved 
a  season  of  hard  labour.  There  was  a  great  want  of  solid  weight, 
and  a  living  travail,  in  order  to  experience  the  renewals  of 
strength  ;  the  power  of  truth  went  forth  freely,  for  the  stining  up, 
and  arousing  the  careless  and  supine  from  their  beds  of  ease. 
After  this  we  visited  two  families  of  Friends,  and,  the  two  follow- 
ing days,  finished  our  visit  to  the  rest  of  the  families  of  Ministers 
and  Elders  in  Creek  monthly  meeting.  The  rest  of  the  week 
was  taken  up  in  visiting  those  under  the  notice  of  our  appoint- 
ment, in  the  monthly  meeting  of  Nine  Partners ;  and  I  may 
truly  say,  it  was,  in  general,  a  sorrowful  affecting  time,  in  behold- 
ing the  great  departure  of  many  of  the  Ministers  and  Elders,  in 
theii"  families,  from  that  faithfiil  discharge  of  duty,  which  their 
stations  require  ;  for  want  of  this,  theii'  children  had  almost  all 
gone  out  from  plainness.  We  endeavoured  to  lay  before  them, 
in  sincerity  and  simplicity  of  heart,  the  great  danger  attending 
such  a  conduct,  and  the  necessity  of  a  reform  in  those  things  ;  and 
felt  peace  of  mind  in  our  labour. 

On  seventh  day  afternoon  we  rode  to  Marlborough,  and 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


57 


attended  Friends'  meeting  there  the  next  day  ;  it  was  an  exer- 
cising season,  on  acroimt  of  tlic  great  rawness  and  inexperience 
of  the  members  of  the  meeting  too  generally,  and  the  great 
lightness  manifest,  in  most  of  those  of  other  societies,  a  num- 
ber of  whom  were  present.  My  mind,  after  a  time  of  hard 
labour,  and  suffering  with  the  seed,  was  engaged  in  some 
service  addressed  to  the  latter  class.  Afterwards  way  opened  to 
have  Friends  select,  to  whom  my  mind  was  led  to  communicate 
some  things  in  a  plain  way,  with  the  view  of  stirring  them  up  to 
more  diligence  and  circumspection  in  their  families,  the  better 
ordering  and  disciplining  of  their  children  and  household,  and 
keeping  tilings  sweet  and  clean,  agreeably  to  the  simplicity  of 
our  holy  profession  ;  and  I  had  peace  in  my  labour.  That  after- 
noon, and  the  two  following  days,  we  visited  all  the  families  of 
Ministers  and  Elders  in  that  monthly  meeting,  except  one.  After 
this  I  returned  home,  and  found  my  family  as  well  as  usual ; 
which  I  esteemed  as  a  favour  from  my  great  and  good  Master. 
For  this,  with  all  his  other  mercies  and  preservations  dispensed 
from  time  to  time,  I  felt  a  return  of  thankfulness  and  grateful 
acknowledgment  to  Him,  who  is  the  author  and  giver  of  every 
good  and  perfect  gift,  and  "  who  is  over  all,  God  blessed  for  ever." 

Having  for  several  years  felt  my  mind  drawn,  at  times,  in  gos- 
pel love,  to  visit  Friends  of  the  yearly  meetings  of  Pennsylvania, 
New- Jersey,  Delaware,  Maryland  and  some  parts  of  Virginia, 
in  the  fall  of  the  year  1797,  apprehending  the  time  to  be  nigh  for 
the  performance  of  the  visit,  I  laid  my  concern  before  Friends 
of  the  monthly  and  quarterly  meetings  of  which  1  was  a  mem- 
ber ;  and  received  certificates  of  theii"  unity  and  concurrence.  I 
left  home  the  12th  of  12th  month,  accompanied  l)y  Joseph 
Cooper,  a  member  of  our  meeting,  in  the  station  of  an  Elder ; 
taking  leave  of  my  family  and  friends,  we  rode  to  New- York, 
and  the  meeting  for  sufferings  sitting  there  the  next  day,  I 
attended  it ;  and  the  day  following  being  the  meeting  day  for 
Friends  of  that  city,  I  felt  most  easy  to  stay  and  attend  it,  which 
proved  a  comfortable  strengthening  season.  After  this  I  took 
leave  of  my  friends  there,  parting  from  them  in  near  unity  and 
brotherly  affection,  and  passed  the  next  morning  by  water  to 

8 


58 


JOURNAL  OF 


Staten  Island.  The  day  following  we  had  two  meetings  there, 
and  though  small  by  reason  of  rain,  were,  nevertheless,  both 
attended  with  a  comfortaljle  degree  of  divine  favour.  The  next 
day  we  left  the  island  and  rotle  to  Shrewsbury  ;  and  the  day 
after,  being  first  day,  we  sat  with  Friends  there,  and,  I  trust,  it 
was  a  profitable  season  to  some  present,  and  relieving  to  my  own 
mind  ;  strength  and  utterance  being  furnished  to  open  divers 
truths  of  the  gospel,  in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  accompa- 
nied with  a  good  degree  of  the  divine  power ;  to  God  only  wise 
be  the  praise,  who  is  over  all,  worthy  for  ever. 

On  second  day  we  attended  a  meeting  at  a  Friend's  house  about 
seven  miles  from  Shrewsbiuy,  on  our  way  to  Squan.  On  third 
and  fourth  days  we  were  at  Squan  and  Squancum,  both  small 
meetings,  as  there  are  but  few  of  our  society  m  those  parts ;  yet 
they  were,  for  the  most  part,  satisfactory  seasons.  We  also  sat 
with  Friends  in  their  preparative  meeting  in  the  latter  place, 
which  appeared  in  a  state  of  great  weakness ;  but  as  way  open- 
ed, I  was  led  to  make  some  remarks,  in  order  to  stir  Friends  up 
to  more  diligence  and  circumspection  ;  and  to'show  the  necessity 
of  an  inward  travail  for  the  arismg  of  truth,  which  can  only 
qualify  for  the  right  ordering  of  the  affairs  of  society.  The  next 
day  we  rode  to  Barnegat,  and  after  an  opportunity  with  Friends 
there  the  following  day,  we  passed  on  to  Little  Eggharbour, 
where  we  remained  tiLL  first  day,  the  24th  of  the  month.  Notice 
being  spread  of  our  intention  of  attending  Friends'  meeting  there, 
many  of  the  neighbouring  inhabitants  came  in,  and  sat  with 
Friends,  and  w^ere  veiy  attentive  ;  divers  truths  of  the  gospel 
were  opened  in  the  clear  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  and  I  was 
helped  to  leave  them  \nth  a  peaceful  mind.  On  the  25th  we 
rode  to  Great  Eggharbour,  and  the  tliree  following  days  attended 
meetings  at  the  upper  and  lower  meeting-houses  of  Friends  there, 
also  an  appointed  meeting  near  the  head  of  Great  Eggharbour 
river,  at  a  place  caUed  Stephens'  Creek ;  they  were  generally 
small,  yet  attended  with  a  good  degree  of  favour  ;  for  which  my 
spirit  was  made  humbly  thankful.  On  sixth  day  we  attended  a 
meeting  at  Cape  May,  which,  through  the  gracious  condescension 
of  the  Shepherd  of  Israel,  was  made  a  truly  comfortable  season, 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


59 


and  His  great  name  magnified  and  praised,  who  is  worthy  for 
ever. 

From  thence  we  rode  to  Morris'  river,  and  attended  a  meeting 
appointed  at  the  house  of  Isaac  Buzby,  a  man  incUning  to  Friends. 
The  spirit  of  truth  favoured  me  with  wisdom  and  utterance,  to 
divide  the  word  suitably  to  the  states  of  those  present ;  and  ap- 
parently to  their  and  to  my  own  satisfaction  and  comfort.  We 
rode  that  afternoon  to  the  house  of  a  Friend  of  the  name  of 
Henry  Rulon,  where  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  the  next 
day.  After  this  we  passed  on  to  Greenwich,  and  the  two  follow- 
ing days  attended  a  meeting  there,  and  one  at  the  head  of 
Cohansy  Creek.  Then  we  rode  to  the  house  of  our  kind  friend 
Mark  MUler,  at  Salem,  and  rested  the  next  day.  The  day 
foUoAving,  being  the  first  of  the  week,  and  7th  of  1st  month,  we 
attended  the  meeting  there,  which  was  very  large,  many  coming 
in  that  were  not  members  ;  the  power  of  truth  was  exalted  over 
all,  to  the  comfort  of  many  hearts,  and  to  the  praise  and  glory  of 
Him,  who  is  the  strength  and  help  of  his  dependent  children. 
On  second  day  we  attended  a  meeting  at  Woodstown ;  I  was 
closely  engaged  among  them  in  a  searching  testimony,  pointing 
out  the  great  danger,  and  hurtful  tendency  of  the  want  of  unity, 
and  joining  in  with  the  spirit  of  the  world,  and  neglecting  a  right 
conformity  to  the  wholesome  order,  estabUshed  among  us,  as  a 
religious  society ;  whereby  many  disorders  had  crept  in,  wound- 
ing to  many :  strength  was  afforded  me,  and  utterance  given, 
and  truth  exalted  over  aU  opposition  and  disorderly  spirits.  The 
four  following  days  we  attended  meetings  at  Penn's  Neck,  Mul- 
lica  Hill,  Upper  Greenwich,  and  Woodbury  ;  they  were  all 
seasons  of  favour,  especially  the  last,  where  truth  was  eminently 
exalted,  and  the  doctrines  of  the  gospel  held  forth  in  the  demon- 
stration of  the  spirit ;  and  the  hearts  of  the  faithful  were  made 
to  rejoice  in  a  sense  of  the  Lord's  goodness,  to  whom  belongs  the 
praise  of  his  own  work  for  ever. 

On  seventh  day  we  rested  with  our  esteemed  friend  Joshua 
Evens ;  and  on  first  day  attended  Newtown  meeting,  and  the 
day  following,  that  at  Haddonfield,  both  of  which  were  profitable 
edifying  meetings.    In  the  afternoon,  after  the  latter  meeting, 


60 


JOURNAL  OP 


we  crossed  the  river  Delaware  to  Philadelphia,  and  the  three 
following  days  attended  the  three  meetings  in  that  city;  they 
were  all  opportunities  of  favour,  and  I  had  much  satisfaction  in 
this  short  visit  to  Friends  of  this  place.  I  was  comforted  in  the 
experience  of  an  open  door  among  them,  both  in  meetings  and  in 
famiUes  where  my  lot  was  cast ;  and  I  felt  my  spirit  nearly  imited 
to  a  hving  remnant,  especially  a  nmnlier  of  the  beloved  youth,  who 
are  under  the  forming  hand,  preparing  for  service  ;  some  of 
whom,  I  trust  and  believe,  will  be  as  valiants  in  theii-  day,  for 
the  promotion  of  the  cause  of  truth  and  righteousness  in  the 
earth.  May  the  Lord  bless,  and  keep  them  faithful  to  himself, 
and  cover  their  heads  in  the  day  of  battle. 

On  sixth  day,  the  19th  of  1st  month,  we  left  the  city  in  order 
to  attend  a  meeting  at  Darby,  notice  having  gone  before  of  our 
intention  ;  it  proved  an  open  time,  but  tlie  meeting  was  hurt  by 
an  indiscreet  appearance  towards  the  end,  which  clothed  my 
spirit  with  sorrow,  not  only  on  the  Friends'  account,  but  espe- 
cially on  account  of  the  pe<iple,  for  whose  information  and  reli- 
gious instruction,  my  mind  had  been  closely  engaged.  We  rode 
that  afternoon  to  Chester,  and  the  next  day  attended  a  meeting- 
there,  which  was  owned  with  manifestations  of  divine  favour  ; 
and  I  was  instructed  to  hand  out  doctrine,  suitable  to  the  states 
of  the  people  present.  After  this  we  rode  to  Wilmington  ;  and 
the  next  day,  being  the  fir.st  of  the  week,  and  the  21st  of  1st 
month,  we  attended  their  forenoon  and  afternoon  meetings.  I 
was  silent  in  the  first ;  but,  through  the  merciful  assistance  of  the 
Shepherd  of  Israel,  the  latter  proved  a  comforialjle  strengthening 
season ;  after  a  time  of  close  exercise  in  silent  laboiu-,  and  deep 
baptism  into  death  and  suffering  with  the  seed,  the  power  of 
truth  went  forth  with  authority  against  many  things  that  opened 
to  view,  as  the  cause  of  that  deep  oppression  of  the  seed  of  life 
among  them ;  the  meeting  ended  under  a  sense  of  the  Lord's 
goodness,  and  many  hearts  were  made  to  rejoice. 

The  six  followhig  days  we  attended  meetings  at  Whiteclay 
Creek,  Appoquinamink,  Duck  Creek,  Little  Creek,  Motherkill, 
and  Camden,  which  is  a  village  where  no  meeting  of  Friends  is 
held ;  things  appeared  low  in  most  of  them,  as  to  the  life  of 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


61 


wligion.  But,  through  the  condescenduig  goodness  of  the  Shep- 
herd of  Israel,  I  had  an  open  door  among  them,  and  many  gos- 
pel truths  were  held  forth,  in  the  clear  demonstration  of  the 
spirit,  and  with  power ;  the  last,  especially,  was  a  time  thank- 
fully to  be  remembered  by  me,  and,  I  believe,  hy  many  others 
present ;  thanks  be  to  God  for  his  unspeakalile  gift,  that  he  is 
not  leaving  himself  without  a  witness  in  the  hearts  of  the  people. 
The  next  day,  first  of-thc  week,  we  attended  Millford  meeting ; 
things  appeared  very  low,  and  but  few  of  oiu-  society  in  that  part, 
and  those  appeared  very  indifferent,  and  several  of  them  were 
absent.  On  second  day  we  attended  a  meeting  at  Cool  Spring, 
and  the  next  day  attended  an  appointed  meeting  on  our  way 
towards  Third  Haven  ;  it  was  held  in  a  f^riend's  house,  who 
had  lately  been  received  a  member,  and  who  before  was  a  pro- 
fessor with  the  people  called  Nicholites  ;  he  appeared  to  be  a 
pretty  solid  man.  The  meeting  was  in  a  good  degree  favoured ; 
the  way  of  preparation,  as  held  forth  in  John's  dispensation,  for 
the  more  full  manifestation  of  the  gospel  state,  was  set  forth^ 
with  the  nature  of  true  Christian  or  spiritual  baptism  ;  and  that 
John's  baptism  was  only  a  figure  thereof,  and,  therefore,  was  no 
part  of  Christ's  baptism,  and,  consequently,  had  no  place  in,  nor 
could  be  of  any  use  under,  the  dispensation  of  the  gospel.  The 
people  appeared  generally  satisfied,  and  I  parted  with  them  in 
peace  of  mind. 

The  six  following  days  we  attended  meetings  at  North  West 
Fork,  Marshy  Creek,  Centre,  Greensborough,  Tuckahoe  Neck, 
and  Tuckahoe  ;  and,  although  these  meetings  were  attended  by 
but  few  of  those  who  were  joined  in  fellowship  with  us,  yet  they 
were  mostly  crowded  full  meetings,  many  of  the  neighbouring 
inhabitants  coming  in,  divers  of  whom  were  holders  of  slaves, 
and  others  very  raw  and  ignorant.  My  spirit  was  much  exer- 
cised in  travail  among  them,  being  baptised  into  their  low  and 
uncultivated  states ;  nevertheless,  through  the  merciful  inter- 
ference of  the  Shepherd  of  Israel,  their  lost  and  undone  condition, 
without  a  Saviour,  was  clearly  laid  open  before  them ;  also  the 
way  of  return,  reconciliation,  and  salvation.  Many  present  were 
aroused  and  reached  by  the  power  of  truth,  wliich  was  graciously 


62 


JOURNAL  OP 


prevalent  in  most  of  these  meetings ;  their  spirits  greatly  tender- 
ed, and  the  few  faithful  among  them  were  made  to  rejoice  ;  and 
my  spirit  was  humbly  thankful,  m  a  sense  of  the  Lord's  good- 
ness ;  to  him  alone  be  the  praise  ;  nothing  due  to  man. 

Three  of  the  above  meetings  were  held  in  meeting-houses  be- 
longing to  a  people  under  the  denomination  of  Nicholites ;  many 
of  them  were  led  into  great  self-denial,  particularly  in  regard  to 
dress  and  household  furniture.  They  appeared  one  in  principle 
with  us,  their  faith  and  doctrine  being  founded  on  the  manifestation 
and  influence  of  the  divine  light,  inwardly  revealed.  Most  of 
them,  of  late,  have  requested  to  be  joined  in  membership  with 
Friends,  and  have  been  received.  Many  of  them  appear  to  be  a 
worthy  people  ;  yet,  I  fear,  some  were  a  little  hurt  by  being  too 
tenacious  in  thek  dress,  particularly  in  making  it  a  point  to  have 
all  parts  of  their  clothing  white.  Yet,  in  general,  they  appeared 
to  be  a  plain  innocent  upright-hearted  people  ;  and  I  felt  a  concern 
lest  they  should  be  hurt  by  the  great  and  prevailing  deficiencies 
manifest  amongst  us,  by  many  turning  away  from  the  purity  and 
simplicity  of  our  holy  self-denying  profession.  This,  I  believe, 
is  a  subject  worthy  of  the  deep  consideration  of  those  delinquent 
brethren.  For  if  it  be  a  truth,  as  most  certauily  it  is,  that  whoso- 
ever offendeth  one  of  the  least  of  those  who  believe  in  Christ,  it 
were  better  for  him  that  a  millstone  were  hanged  about  his  neck, 
and  he  cast  into  the  sea  ;  what  will  become  of  those,  who  live  in 
the  daily  practice  of  those  things,  which  give  contmual  offence  to 
their  brethren,  and  are  stumbling  blocks  in  the  way  of  honest 
inquirers. 

After  attending  the  aforesaid  meetings,  we  passed  on,  having 
meetings  at  Choptank,  Third  Haven  and  Bayside,  on  the  eastern 
shore  of  Maryland.  The  two  fiist  were  attended  by  many  of 
other  societies,  a  nmiiber  of  whom  were  Methodists,  and  at  each 
was  one  of  their  ministers  ;  both  of  whom  were  very  solid,  and 
paid  great  attention  ;  one  of  them  was  much  affected,  and  wept 
freely  for  a  considerable  tune  ;  and,  with  divers  others,  manifested 
their  full  satisfaction.  My  spuit  was  much  humbled,  and  made 
to  rejoice  in  the  Lord,  that  he  was  graciously  near,  and  made 
bare  his  arm  for  our  help,  and  carried  us  through  the  exercise  of 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


68 


those  meetings,  to  the  honour  of  his  own  name,  who  ia  over  all, 
worthy  for  ever. 

After  leaving  Bayside,  we  attended  a  meeting  which  we  had 
appointed  the  day  before,  on  our  way  thither,  at  a  village  called 
St.  Michael's,  among  the  Methodists ;  the  people  were  nearly  all 
of  that  profession  in  this  place.  It  was  held  in  their  meeting- 
house, and  was  the  first  meeting  appointed  by  any  Friend  in 
that  place,  except  a  small  one  by  some  women  Friends  some 
years  before.  There  was,  at  this  time,  a  general  collection ; 
and,  considering  their  unacquaintance  with  us,  and  our  manner 
of  sitting  in  silence,  they  behaved  pretty  well.  A  comfortable 
degree  of  the  divine  presence  was  witnessed,  and  many  minds 
tendered  and  comforted,  and  divers  gospel  truths  clearly  opened 
to  the  apparent  satisfaction  of  most  present. 

We  left  them  with  peace  of  mind,  and  the  next  day  attended 
a  meeting  at  Easton,  alias  Third  Haven,  among  the  black  peo- 
ple, which  we  had  appointed  some  days  before.  It  proved  a 
favoured  opportunity,  and  to  the  edification,  comfort,  and  encou- 
ragement of  this  poor,  injured,  and  too  much,  despised  people ; 
many  of  whom,  I  believe,  have  good  deshes  begotten  in  their 
minds  after  the  knowledge  of  the  truth. 

The  next  day,  the  first  of  the  week,  and  the  11th  of  2d  month, 
we  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  this  place,  and  information  of 
our  intention  of  being  here  having  been  given  before,  the  neigh- 
borunng  inhabitants  generally  came  in,  so  that  the  house  was 
much  crowded.  The  gospel  was  largely  and  fieely  preached 
among  them,  to  the  apparent  satisfaction  of  all  present.  How 
marvellous  is  thy  loving  kindness,  O  Lord,  to  the  workmanship 
of  thy  holy  hand ;  how  art  thou  graciously  holding  out,  fi-om 
season  to  season,  offers  of  reconcihation  to  thy  revolting  and 
rebellious  children,  and  art  calUng  to  them,  by  thy  servants,  now, 
as  formerly,  return,  return,  repent  and  hve ;  for  why  will  ye  die,  O 
house  of  Israel,  sait  h  your  God.  We  continued  here  and  attend- 
ed their  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders  ;  and,  on  fifth  day,  their 
monthly  meeting,  wliich  was  in  some  degree  favoured ;  divers 
things  were  opened  for  the  improvement  and  encouragement  of 
Friends  in  well  ordering  the  affairs  of  tiiith. 


64 


JOURNAL  OP 


The  day  following  we  rode  to  Chester,  and  the  next  day 

attended  Friends'  monthly  meeting  at  CJecil,  which  was  small ; 
but  truth  favoured  me  with  abiUty  to  labour,  to  sth  up  Friends 
to  more  vigilance,  and  careful  waiting  for  the  arising  of  the 
spring  of  life  ;  as  nothing  short  of  the  divine  power,  and  renewed 
quickenings  of  the  holy  spirit,  can  qualify  for  the  promotion  of 
good  order  and  disciphne  ^in ,  the  Church.  The  next  day,  the 
first  of  the  week,  we  attended  the  meeting  here.  Notice  having 
been  given  to  the  neiglibouriiig  inhaljitants,  many  came  m,  most 
of  whom  appeared  very  raw  and  light ;  nevertheless,  as  Friends 
kept  down  to  their  exercise,  towards  the  close  of  the  meeting, 
truth  came  into  dommiou  ;  and  all  that  opposed  it  was  made  to 
bow  and  acknowledge  its  power  ;  for  which  my  spirit  was  made 
thankful  to  the  Author  of  every  blessing.  On  second  and  third 
days  following,  we  attended  two  meetings ;  the  first,  in  Friends' 
meeting-house  at  Chester,  and  the  latter  at  Chestertown  in  their 
court-house  ;  both  pretty  large  meetings,  and  overshadowed  with 
the  wing  of  divine  power ;  although,  in  the  latter  meeting,  we 
had  to  arrive  at  it  tlu-ough  deep  baptism,  and  suffering  with  the 
seed  ;  for  those  that  reign  with  Christ,  must  be  willing  likewise 
to  suffer.  The  people,  in  the  forepart,  were  very  light,  often 
whispering  one  to  the  other ;  a  spirit  of  hcentiousness  appeared  to 
be  prevalent  with  many  of  them  ;  but  as  truth  arose,  they  were 
gradually  svibjected,  until  a  becoming  solemnity  appeared  in 
almost  every  countenance.  I  trust  some  good  was  effected  in 
some  minds ;  but  we  must  leave  the  event  to  the  Lord,  to  whom 
alone  belongs  all  the  praise  ;  nothmg  due  to  man,  but  blushing 

and  confusion  of  face.  :,-  t,Vf,.-^v  ^,  :  '  -  .•^  •^  ^  ■     :  ■  ; 

The  next  day  we  atlended  a  meeting  at  the  head  of  Chester ; 
it  was  somewhat  hvut,  in  the  forepart,  for  want  of  room.  The 
house  was  not  sufficient  to  contain  all  who  came,  and  the 
weather  too  cold  to  stand  without ;  yet,  as  it  settled  into  quiet,  it 
proved  a  precious  baptizing  season,  and  many  hearts  were  melted 
into  deep  contrition.  I  had  cause  to  hope  that  if  the  few  Friends 
in  that  place  show  forth  a  good  example,  there  will  be  some 
gathered.  The  day  following  we  attended  the  meeting  at  Sassa- 
fras, to  pretty  good  satisfaction...  The  next, day  we  rode  to  East 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


6® 


Nottingham,  and  attended  (lieir  monthly  meeting  the  day  after; 
it  proved  a  very  exercising  meeting,  things  being  much  out  of 
order  among  them.  I  was  led  forth  in  a  hne  of  close  searching 
labour,  both  in  testimony  in  the  first  part  of  the  meeting,  and 
likewise  in  that  for  discipline  ;  but  I  got  little  relief,  except  from 
a  consciousness,  in  myself,  of  having  discharged  my  duly  faith- 
fully among  them.  The  next  day,  the  first  of  the  Aveek,  and 
25th  of  2d  month,  we  attended  their  particidar  meeting  ;  in  which 
I  had  to  expose,  in  a  close,  arousing  testimony,  that  spirit  among 
Friends,  which  pleads  for  joining  with  those  active  in  civil  govern- 
ment, and  taking  part  therein,  and  adopting  the  maxims  and 
spirit  of  the  world.  Truth  reigned  triumphantly  in  this  meet- 
ing over  all  opposition  and  disorderly  spirits.  The  26th  we 
rested.  The  27th  we  attended  West  Nottingham  meeting  to 
good  satisfaction,  and  were  made  to  rejoice  in  truth's  victory  over 
death  and  darkness,  for  which  the  honest-hearted  were  made 
thankful.  The  28th  we  attended  a  meeting,  lately  estaljlished, 
about  five  miles  distant  from  the  Ibrmcr,  wliich  I  sat  mostly  in 
silence,  feeling  no  clear  commission  for  preaching  the  gospel 
among  them. 

The  1st  of  3d  month,  we  attended  Little  Britaiir  meeting, 
wherein  I  was  opened  and  led  into  a  large  doctrinal  commimica- 
tion,  suited  to  the  states  of  many  present.  The  meeting  was 
large  and  sohd,  and,  I  trust,  edifymg  and  insfructiye  to  a  number 
present.  But  too  many,  who  have  ears  to  hear,  and  are  led  to 
acknowledge  the  truth  of  testimonies  deliveied,  neglect  the  prac- 
tical part,  which  is  tlie  most  essentia/ ;  and  are,  therefore,  in  a 
situation  like  those,  wlio,  seeius  theij-  natuial  faces  in  a  glass, 
turn  away,  and  forget  what  rianner  of  persons  they  are.  The 
2d,  we  passed  over  the  rive-  Suscjuehannah,  and  lodged  at  Rich- 
ard Webb's,  at  Fawn,  apd  attended  their  meeting  next  day.  It 
was  a  solid,  and,  I  beieve  to  many,  a  profitable  season.  The 
4th,  and  first  of  the  week,  we  attended  Deer  Creek  meeting, 
which  was  large,  tnd  favomed  with  the  overshadowing  wing 
of  heavenly  rega'd.  The  condescending  goodness  and  mercy 
of  a  gracious  God  to  his  sinful  creatures  were  marvellously  dis- 
played.   The  meeting  was  composed,  in  part,  of  a  number  of 


66  JOURNAL  OP 

dark  undisciplined  spiiits,  many  of  whom,  it  was  thought,  had 
not  been  at  any  meetinj^  for  several  years,  and  some  of  them 
never  at  any  of  ours  before.  The  meeting  appeared  to  be  gene- 
rally brought  under  a  becoming  solemnity,  and  concluded  to  our 
solid  comfort.  The  5th,  ^\■e  attended  Bush  River  meeting,  and 
although  it  was  composed  generally  of  a  loose  careless-mmded 
people,  yet  truth  favomed  me ;  and,  through  divine  help,  the 
gospel  was  preached  in  the  demons-tratiou  of  the  spuit,  and  with 
power.  Many  present  were  made  sensible  of  its  baptizing  influ- 
ence ;  and  all  contrary  sphits  appeared  subjected,  and  brought 
down,  and  truth  reigned  triumphant. 

The  6lh  and  7th  of  3d  month,  we  attended  the  meetings  at 
Little  Falls,  and  Gunpowder,  both  seasons  of  favour.    The  8th 
we  attended  Friends'  monthly  meeting  at  Baltimore.    It  was,  I 
trust,  a  profitable  season,  both  in  the  meeting  for  worship,  and 
that  for  the  discipline  of  the  Chinch.  In  the  meeting  for  worship, 
I  was  led,  in  a  close  searching  testimony,  to  set  forth  the  great 
danger,  and  hurtful  effects,  of  Friends  joining  in  with  the  spirit 
of  the  world,  and  taking  any  part  in  the  fluctuating  govern- 
ments, customs,  and  manners  thereof.    Things  opened  clearly 
to  show,  tliat,  in  days  past,  the  apostacy  took  place  through  that 
medium,  both  among  the  primitive  Christians,  and  also  in  our 
own  society  ;  and  that  the  only  way,  for  us  as  a  peoj)le  to  regain 
the  prunitive  state,  was  to  return  back  itito  ancient  simplicity,  to 
separate  from  the  world,  its  spuit,  governments,  manners,  and 
maxims ;  and  to  make  no  league  with  those  actuated  thereby. 
Truth  rose  into  dominion,  nnd  the  faithfid  among  them  were 
strengthened.    May  praises  for  <5ver  be  ascribed  to  the  Shepherd 
of  Israel,  who  is  indeed  a  God  near  »t  hand,  and  a  present  helper 
in  every  needful  time. 

The  9th  we  rested,  and  I  wrote  to  my  family  and  friends 
at  home.  The  10th,  we  visited  several  fab^iUes  in  the  morning, 
and  in  the  afternoon,  at  the  thud  hour,  attended  a  meeting 
among  the  poor,  at  the  alms-house  belonginr  to  tliis  city.  It 
proved  a  comfortable  season,  and  I  was  glad  !  gave  up  to  the 
service.  The  11th  being  the  first  of  the  wee\,  we  attended 
Friends'  meetmg  in  the  forenoon,  and  some  notice  being  given 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


among  the  town's  people  of  our  Ijeing  there,  it  was  large  ;  and 
after  sitting  a  considerable  time  in  silent  labour,  wherein  my 
inuid  was  baptized  into  the  slates  of  those  present,  I  stood  up 
with  a  prospect  of  the  hurtful  tendency  of  pride,  both  in  religious 
and  civil  society.  Truth  opened  the  way,  and  gradually  rose 
into  a  good  degree  of  dominion,  and,  I  trust,  it  was  a  profitable 
season  to  many  present.  In  the  afternoon,  at  the  third  hour,  we 
had  a  meeting  witii  the  black  people ;  and,  except  the  hurt 
received  by  tlreir  long  and  untimely  gathering,  I  think  it  was,  in 
general,  a  comfortable  season  ;  and  many  among  them  appeared 
to  be  brought  into  a  liccoming  solemnity,  and  we  parted  imder 
the  savour  of  truth. 

On  the  12th,  we  attended  a  meeting  at  Elk  Ridge  ;  it  proved, 
in  general,  a  heavy  season,  yet,  I  trust,  a  time  of  profit  and 
favour  to  some.  We  rode  that  afternoon  thirteen  miles  towards 
Indian  Spring  meeting,  which  we  attended  the  next  day.  In 
this  meeting,  I  was  led,  in  a  plain  and  full  manner,  to  expose  the 
enormous  sin  of  oppression,  and  of  liolding  our  fellow  creatures 
in  bondage,  with  the  pernicious  fruits  and  eflects  of  it,  to  those 
who  are  guilty  thereof,  especially  to  their  children  ;  who,  being 
supported  by  the  labour  and  toil  of  those  held  in  slavery,  and 
thereby  brought  up  in  idleness,  were  led  into  pride,  and  a  very 
false,  and  dark  idea  respecting  God,  and  liis  suj)erintending  pro- 
vidence, and  into  many  other  evils,  fatal  to  their  present  and 
eternal  well  being,  and  tending  to  disqualify  them  from  being 
usefid  in  almost  any  respect,  either  to  themselves  or  society,  and 
thereby  rendering  them  unworthy  of  the  respect  of  wise  and  good 
men.  Truth  rose  into  dominion,  and  some  present,  who  were 
slave  liolders,  were  made  sensible  of  their  conditions,  and  were 
much  affected.  I  felt  a  hope  to  arise  that  the  opportunity  would 
prove  profitable  to  some,  and  1  left  them  with  peace  of  mind. 
Since  then,  I  have  been  informed,  that  a  woman,  present  at  that 
season,  who  possessed  a  number  of  slaves,  was  so  full}^  con- 
vinced, as  to  set  them  free,  and,  not  long  after,  joined  in  mem- 
tership  witli  Friends  :  which  is  indeed  cause  of  gratitude  and 
thankfulness  of  heart,  to  the  great  and  blessed  Authoi'  of  every 
mercy  vouchsafed  to  the  children  of  men. 


68 


JOURNAL  OF 


On  the  14th  we  were  at  Sandy  Spring  meeting,  to  satisfaction. 
The  15th,  we  attended  Friends'  preparative  meeting  at  Alexan- 
dria. It  was  a  small  weak  meeting,  very  few  manifesting  any 
real  concern  for  the  support  of  our  Christian  testimonies.  They 
gathered  there  from  tlillerent  parts  of  the  country,  mostly  for  the 
advancement  of  their  temporal  interest ;  and  this  being  upper- 
most with  them,  they  were  disqualified  for  improvement  in  reli- 
gious experience.  O  that  we,  as  a  people,  were  more  weaned 
from  the  world  and  its  faduig  enjoyments,  and  our  affections 
placed  on  celestial  treasure  ;  then  would  the  light  of  the  Church 
break  forth  out  of  obscurity,  and  her  darkness  become  as  the 
noonday  ;  thousands  would  then  be  gathered  from  the  highways 
and  hedges,  and  flock  to  the  brightness  of  her  arising,  with  ever- 
lasting joy  upon  their  heads. 

The  lOtli  we  rode  to  Fairfax,  about  forty-six  miles.  The  17th 
we  attended  their  select  quarterly  meeting.  The  18th,  the  first 
of  the  week,  we  attended  the  meeting  at  this  place,  which  wa5 
large,  composed  of  Friends  and  others.  I  was  led  to  open  the 
great  advantages  attendant  on  a  life  of  righteousness,  from  that 
scripture  passage,  "Righteousness  exalt etli  a  nation  ;  but  sin  is 
a  reproacli  to  any  people  ;"  and  showing  the  difference  between 
a  righteousness,  founded  on  the  laws,  maxims,  and  precepts  of 
men,  and  the  righteousness  that  is  witnessed  by  faith  in  the  Son 
of  God,  as  revealed  to  the  hearts  and  soids  of  the  children  of 
men  through  the  holy  spirit.  Although  there  were  many  raw, 
and  uncidtivated  persons  present,  yet  truth  came  into  a  good 
degree  of  dominion  and  victory,  and,  I  trust,  it  was  a  profitable 
season  to  some. 

The  19th  we  attended  the  quarterly  meeting  for  discipline,  in 
which  I  had  some  service,  in  opening  the  nature  and  end  of 
discipline,  and  encouraging  Friends  to  an  improvement  therein, 
to  the  solid  satisfaction  of  tlie  honest  in  heart.  The  next  day 
was  the  youth's  meeting  for  the  last  time;  the  quarterly  meeting,  the 
day  before,  having  concluded  to  discontinue  the  same  thereafter, 
from  a  belief  that  its  usefulness  was  over ;  and  that  it  had  be- 
come more  luntful  than  beneficial.  A  great  concourse  of  idle 
people  came  together  at  that  time,  not  so  much  lor  the  sake  of 


KI.IAS  HICKS. 


09 


the  meeting,  as  to  see  and  be  seen,  and  to  make  it  a  place  of 
diversion.  I  had  considerable  to  say  among  them,  but  got  but 
little  relief ;  by  reason,  as  I  apprehended,  of  a  spirit  of  mfidclity 
and  hcentiousness,  too  generally  prevailing  among  the  people.  I 
vi^as  satisfied  the  quarterly  meeting  had  done  right  in  discon- 
tinuing that  meeting  ;  believmg,  if  continued,  it  v^'ould  have  been 
very  prejudicial  to  the  youth,  for  whose  good,  in  the  first  institu- 
tion thereof,  it  was  intended. 

The  21st  we  attended  the  preparative  meeting  of  South  Fork, 
which  is  a  branch  of  Goose  Creek  monthly  meeting.  I  was 
silent  in  the  meeting  for  worship,  but  had  some  close  labour 
with  Friends  m  their  preparative  meeting.  I  felt  my  spirit  much 
oppressed  with  a  sense  of  the  great  lukewarmness,  and  love  of 
the  world,  which  appeared  to  prevail  in  such  a  manner,  that  the 
business  of  the  preparative  meeting  was  conducted  in  a  very 
weak  vague  manner,  and  void  of  a  right  sense  of  the  dignity  of 
such  a  meeting,  or  a  due  concern  for  the  preservation  of  right 
order.  I  felt  peace  of  mind  in  a  faithful  discharge  of  my  duty 
among  them. 

Tlie  22d  we  were  at  Goose  Creek  preparative  meeting,  which 
was  large  in  the  first  sitting,  many  of  other  societies  coming  in. 
After  a  considerable  time  of  silent  labour,  in  deep  baptism  with 
the  suffering  seed,  my  mouth  was  opened  in  a  clear  full  testi- 
mony, directed  to  the  states  of  those  present.  And  many  were 
brought  under  the  influence  of  that  power  which  "  cut  Rahab, 
and  wounded  the  dragon."  Truth  came  into  dominion,  and  a 
good  degree  of  victory  over  all  was  witnessed.  Nevertheless, 
such  is  the  deadness  and  indifference  of  some  who  go  tmder  our 
name,  that,  at  the  close  of  this  very  solemn  meeting  for  worship, 
they  withdrew  with  those  who  were  not  memljers,  and  continued 
out  until  the  preparative  meeting  had  proceeded  considerably  in 
its  business  ;  and  then  came  in  one  after  another,  in  a  very  care- 
less unthinking  manner.  My  heart  was  grieved,  and  I  have 
often  been  affected  with  similar  conduct  in  many  places  in  those 
parts,  as  also  in  some  others  ;  a  conduct,  which  appears  to  me  to 
carry  in  it  great  indignity  to  our  high  and  holy  profession  ;  and, 
J  believe,  is  greatly  offensive  to  the  great  Head  of  the  Church, 


70 


JOURNAL  OF 


lor  the  promolion  of  whose  righteous  cause,  these  meetings  for 
discipline  arc  estabUt<hed.  I  beUeve  one  great  cause  of  this 
sorrowllil  weaknt^ss  and  declension  is  owing  to  a  want  of  due 
administration  of  disciphne,  by  those  who  are  called  thereto.  By 
overlooking  one  little  thing  after  another,  custom  establishes  those 
bud  habits  ;  and  great  loss  is  sustained  by  the  Church  in  general, 
and  by  some  of  its  members  in  particular.  It  is  very  observable 
that  meetings,  where  those  things  are  apparent,  are  generally  in 
a  declining  state.  I  was  exercised  in  a  plain  way  of  dealing 
with  those  delinquents,  showing  them  the  hurtful  tendency  of 
such  conduct.  Truth  prevailed,  and  many  hearts  were  much 
tendered,  and  the  hands  of  the  faithful  strengthened  ;  to  the  Lord 
only  wise  be  the  praise  of  Iris  own  work,  who  is  over  all,  w^orthy 
for  ever. 

The  23d  we  attended  a  meeting  at  a  place  called  the  Gap, 
where  there  was  a  small  meeting  of  Friends.  It  was,  however, 
a  large  collection,  many  of  other  societies  attending,  more  than 
the  house  could  hold.  Many  of  them  appeared  to  be  a  raw 
insensible  people,  void  of  any  right  idea  or  knowledge  of  true 
religion,  which  made  the  meeting  very  trying  and  painful ;  yet 
not  without  some  degree  of  favour  towards  the  conclusion,  by 
truth's  obtaining  the  victory  over  death  and  darkness. 

Whilst  in  this  neighl)oiuhood,  my  mind  was  brought  into  a 
state  of  deep  exercise  and  travail,  from  a  sense  of  the  great  turn- 
ing away  of  many  among  us,  from  the  law  and  the  testimony, 
and  the  prevailing  of  a  spirit  of  great  infidelity  and  deism  among 
the  people,  and  darkness  spreading  over  tlie  minds  of  many  as  a 
thick  veil.  It  was  a  time  in  which  Thomas  Paine's  Age  of 
Reason  (falsely  so  calleil)  was  much  attended  to  in  those  pai  ts  ; 
and  some,  who  were  members  in  our  society,  as  I  was  informed, 
were  captivated  by  his  dark  insinuating  address,  and  were  ready 
almost  to  make  shipwreck  of  faith  and  a  good  conscience.  Under 
a  sense  thereof,  my  spirit  was  dee])]y  humbled  before  the  ma- 
jesty of  heaven,  and  in  the  anguisli  of  my  soul,  I  said,  "  spare 
thy  people,  O  Lord,  and  give  not  thy  heritage  to  reproach,"  and 
suffer  not  thy  truth  to  fall  in  the  streets. 

The  24th  we  attended  the  monthly  meeting  at  Fairfax,  which 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


71 


was  an  exercising  season,  things  being  much  out  of  order,  for 
want  of  more  faithfulness  among  the  members,  and  a  due  atten- 
tion to  discipHne.  I  laboured  among  them  in  the  abihty  received, 
for  their  encouragement,  and  incitement  to  their  respective  du- 
ties ;  but  alas  for  us,  most  men  mind  theii-  own  things,  and  not 
the  things  that  are  Jesus  Christ's.  A  worldly  spuit  too  much 
prevails  among  the  professors  of  truth,  to  their  great  hurt,  and  to 
the  great  grief  of  the  honest-hearted,  who  are  in  travail  for  Zion's 
prosperity,  and  Jerusalem's  peace. 

The  2.5th,  we  attended  their  first  day  meeting,  which  was 
large,  and  in  it  strength  was  graciously  afforded  to  minister  to 
the  people  in  truth's  authority,  which  came  into  dominion  over 
all.  This  afternoon  we  passed  over  the  great  river  Potomac,  in 
our  way  to  Bush  Creek,  in  Maryland  ;  this,  by  reason  of  rains, 
was  very  full,  and  difficult  to  pass.  After  we  had  passed  over  the 
river  Potomac,  we  had  nuicli  difficiUty  in  crossing  u  creek  not  far 
from  it.  There  was  a  floating  bridge  over  it ;  but  the  water  was 
so  high,  that  we  could  not  approach  the  bridge  by  the  road  com- 
monly used ;  and  we  only  succeeded  in  reaching  it,  by  proceeding 
ourselves  on  the  top  of  a  high  fence,  and  heading  our  horses  by 
our  sides.  Mine  fell  into  a  deep  part  of  the  creek  ;  but  he  soon 
rose,  and  swam  to  the  shore.  A  Friend  was  in  company  with 
us,  ^\ith  a  one  horse  carriage  ;  and  there  appeared  to  be  no  way 
of  getting  his  conveyance  over,  but  by  the  horse  swimming  with 
it  over  the  creek.  This  we  knew  would  be  attended  with  con- 
siderable risk,  as  the  creek  was  deep  in  the  middle,  and  the  car- 
riage a  heavy  one.  But  as  there  were  no  inhabitants  on  this 
neck  of  land,  nor  near  to  it,  and  as  night  was  coming  on,  we 
pursued  that  course,  and  led  the  horse  with  the  carriage  into  the 
creek ;  and  after  violent  exertions,  being  at  one  tune  drawn 
under  water  by  the  weight  of  the  carriage,  he  took  it  safe  over. 
We  were  thus  favoured  to  surmount  this  gieat  difficulty,  without 
any  hurt  to  ourselves,  or  our  horses  ;  which  was  cause  of  thank- 
fulness and  gratitude  to  the  great  Author  of  every  mercy  and 
blessing. 

We  proceeded  to  a  Friend's  house  by  the  name  of  Richard 
Richardson,  where  we  had  a  meeting  the  next  day,  with  his 


72 


JOURNAL  OP 


family,  and  a  number  of  the  neighbouring  people,  who  were  not 
Friends.  It  proved  a  favoured  season,  and  I  trust  will  not  soon 
be  forgotten  by  some  present ;  may  it  fasten  as  a  nail  in  a  sme 
place  ;  and  to  some  I  have  a  hope  it  may  be  as  bread  cast  upon 
the  waters,  to  return  after  many  days. 

The  day  following  wc  attended  Bush  Creek  meeting,  notice 
having  gone  forward  some  days  before,  of  our  intention  of  being 
there  at  this  time  ;  it  was  large,  and  greatly  favoured  with 
the  prevalence  of  tmth,  by  way  of  testimony.  Many  things, 
relative  to  true  gospel  worship,  were  clearly  opened,  and  the 
fallacy  and  fruitlessness  of  all-will  worship,  and  mere  bodily  ex- 
ercise, in  matters  of  religion,  manifested  to  the  view  of  all  present, 
who  had  eyes  to  see,  and  hearts  to  luiderstand,  what  the  spirit 
saith  to  the  Churches.  It  was  a  very  solemn  time,  worthy  of 
grateful  remembrance. 

The  28th  we  attended  Pipe  Creek  meeting,  v^rherein  I  was 
greatly  afflicted  with  evil  thoughts,  which  would  keep  arising  in 
my  mind,  that  I  was  ahnost  at  times  taken  off  from  my  proper 
exercise.  This  very  much  grieved  my  spirit ;  but,  as  I  endea- 
voured to  keep  up  the  warfare,  I  was  led  to  believe  it  was  the 
case  with  too  many  present ;  and  that  by  giving  way  to  such 
thoughts,  some  had  become  captivated  by  their  own  lusts,  wound- 
ing one  another  ;  and  divers  disorders,  and  a  want  of  imity,  had 
got  in  anrong  them,  and  many  hurt  thereby.  I  was  led  into  the 
necessity  of  bearing  testimony  against  these  things,  as  way  open- 
ed, and  calling  the  attention  of  all  present,  to  the  light,  spirit, 
grace,  and  truth  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  our  holy  pattern,  as 
the  only  place  of  refuge  and  preservation  from  these,  and  all 
other  hurtful  things.  After  this  meeting,  the  Friend,  where  we 
lodged,  informed  me  the  next  morning,  that  himself  and  his 
wife  were  uneasy  that  no  Friends  had  come  in  to  see  us  after 
the  meeting,  and  were  afraid  they  would  judge  them  of  having 
informed  me  of  their  condition,  the  states  of  many  had  been  so 
exactly  descrilied  in  the  meeting  ;  but  I  told  him  they  need  not 
be  troul)led,  as  they  knew  themselves  to  be  clear. 

The  two  following  days  we  attended  )neetings  at  Monallen 
and  Huntington  ;  they  were  both  exercising  seasons ;  ueverthe- 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


73 


less,  iruth  favoured  me  with  ability  and  understanding  to  com- 
municate in  a  close  searching  manner,  suited  to  the  states  of 
those  present ;  and  a  crumb  of  consolation  was  handed  fortli  to 
the  few  honest-hearted,  who  were  in  travail  for  Zion's  arising, 
and  who  went  mourning  on  their  way,  and  bowed  in  spirit,  from 
a  sense  of  the  great  turning  away  from  the  law  and  testimony, 
and  the  prevalence  of  a  spirit  of  ease  and  great  indifference, 
whereby  many  wrong  things  had  entered. 

From  thence  we  passed  on  to  Warrington  and  Newberry,  in 
each  of  which  meetings  truth  favoured  with  victory  ;  and  the 
hidden  things  of  Esau,  or  the  first  natme,  which  are  earthly, 
were  brought  to  light,  searched  out,  detected,  aiid  condemned. 
The  manner  and  way  in  which  the  new  or  second  birth,  which  is 
spiritual,  and  which  has  the  promise,  is  brought  forfli  and  effected, 
was  clearly  shown  and  pointed  out ;  with  the  blessing  attendant 
thereon,  to  the  comfort  of  the  faithful,  and  the  few  willing  minded 
among  them,  and  to  the  stirring  up  and  arousing  the  lukewarm, 
careless,  and  indifferent  professors,  from  their  beds  of  ease  and 
carnal  security.    The  latter  meeting  especially  was  a  time  to  be 
remembered  ;  many  hearts  were  greatly  affected,  and,  I  trust, 
the  season  will  not  soon  be  forgotten  by  some.     I  was  very 
thankful  for  the  relief  I  felt  to  my  own  mind,  after  many  days 
of  deep  baptism  witli  the  suffering  seed.    Religion  appeared  to  be 
at  a  very  low  ebb  in  those  parts,  by  the  prevalence  of  a  worldly 
spirit,  which  makes  hard  work  for  the  poor  travellers,  who 
have  (o  go  up  and  down  among  them,  as  with  tlieir  hands  upon 
theii-  loins  for  very  pain.    Did  those  lukewarm  careless  profes- 
sors rightly  consider  the  great  distress  and  exercise  they  bring 
upon  their  concerned  brethren,  who  are  in  travail  for  their  re^ 
demption  and  salvation  ;  and  wlio  are  going  up  and  down  as 
Vvith  their  lives  in  their  hands,  through  difficulties  and  dangers, 
in  jeopardy  by  sea  and  by  land,  and  among  false  brethren,  we 
might  reasonably  suppose  it  would  be  a  means  to  stir  them  up 
to  more  diligence  and  circumspection,  that  they  might  thereby 
comfort  them  in  their  exercises,  and  relieve  them  in  their  tribu- 
lations ;  tben  they  that  sow,  and  they  that  reap,  might  rejoice 
together,  and  joy  in  the  God  of  their  salvation. 

10 


74 


JOURNAL  OF 


Our  next  meeting  was  at  Yorktown,  where  we  tanied  two 
days,  and  were  at  thek  monthly  meetuig,  wherein  things  appeared 
distressingly  low,  as  to  the  right  conducting  of  discipline  in  truth's 
authority  :  indeed  the  meeting  seemed  simk  so  below  any  proper 
sight  and  sense  of  right  order,  that  no  way  opened  to  administer 
much  or  any  help ;  and  we  left  them  without  obtaining  much 
rehef  of  mind.  We  passed  on,  having  a  meeting  near  Wright's 
ferry  ;  and  then  crossed  the  great  river  Susquehannah,  and  had 
meetings  at  Lancaster  and  Lampeter.  On  first  day,  the  8th  of 
4th  month,  we  attended  a  meeting  at  Sadsbury,  which,  through 
hard  labour,  proved  a  season  of  enlargement,  in  a  hne  of  close 
doctrine,  suited  to  the  varied  states  of  those  present ;  some  minds 
appeared  to  be  much  humbled;  may.it  not  be  in  vain,  but  as 
seed  sown  on  good  ground. 

The  10th  of  4th  month  we  attended  West  Cain  meeting,  the 
11th  Fallowfiekl,  both  favoured  meetings.     The  12th  we  at- 
tended London  Grove  meeting,  \vherein  Iwas  led  to  open  the  duty 
and  obhgation  incumbent  on  ministers,  elders,  overseers,  and 
heads  of  families.    I  began  with  this  query  of  the  prophet  Isaiah, 
"  Watchman,  Avhat  of  tlie  night showing  that  for  want  of 
keeping  up  a  strict  watch,  with  an  eye  single  to  that  inward 
holy  monitor,  or  spirit  of  pure  unerring  wisdom,  niany  hurtfid 
and  destructive  tlungs  had  got  in  among  us.    Especially  for 
want  of  a  godly  care  ui  parents  and  heads  of  families,  over  their 
cliildren  and  those  under  their  charge,  many  pollutions  had  got 
in,  and  spread  among  them  ;  particidarly  the  youth,  not  only  in 
regard  to  adepartme  fiom  the  shnphcityaud  purity  of  our  holy,  self- 
denying  profession,  in  dress  and  address,  but  also  in  many  other 
unseemly  and  reproachful  practices  ;  which  is  but  the  natural 
consequence  of  parents  indulging  undue  liberties  in  their  children. 
It  was  a  solemn  time,  worthy  of  gratefid  remembrance.  The 
13th  we  were  at  West  Grove  meeting,  in  which  I  had  to  go 
through  a  similar  exercise ;  from  a  sense  of  the  great  want  of 
faithfuhiess  among  the  members,  whereby  many  deficiencies 
were  apparent,  wounding  the  faithful.    Truth  favoured  me  with 
ability  to  clear  myself  among  them,  with  plamness  of  speech ; 
which  was  cause  of  thankfulness  to  the  honest-hearted. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


75 


The  14th  we  attended  New  Garden  meeting,  mostly  in  silence, 
in  which  I  had  peace.  The  1.5(h,  and  fost  of  the  week,  we 
attended  Hockesson  meeting;  and,  at  the  fourth  hour  in  the 
afternoon  were  at  Center ;  the  16th  at  Kennet ;  these  were,  for 
the  most  part,  suffering  seasons.  Although  there  is  a  small 
remnant  preserved,  who  are  in  travail  for  truth's  arising,  yet  the 
greater  part  are  too  much  captivated  by  a  worldly  spirit ;  which 
leads  into  a  neglect  of  attending  meetings,  and  great  carelessness 
in  respect  to  the  right  ordering  their  families  ;  I)y  reason  whereof, 
many  imdue  liberties  have  got  in  among  them,  wounding  the 
faithful  and  honest-hearted. 

The  17th  we  attended  Chichester  meeting;  it  was  a  time 
thankfidly  to  be  remembered  ;  the  everlasting  gospel  of  peace 
and  salvation  was  preached  in  tmth's  authority ;  and  all  con- 
trary spirits  were  subjected  and  brought  down.  Truth  reigned 
triumphantly  over  all ;  magnified  for  ever  be  the  name  of 
the  Lord,  who  made  bare  his  arm  for  our  help,  and  the 
strengthening  and  refreshing  of  my  poor  soul.  I  liad  been  at 
times,  for  days  and  nights  past,  ready  to  suik  into  discouragement 
and  dismay,  by  reason  of  the  deep  Ijaptisms  I  had  to  pass  through, 
unknown  to  man,  but  in  fellowship  with  the  suffering  seed, 
which  lies  smothered  and  pressed  down  in  the  hearts  of  many 
careless  and  lukewarm  professors,  as  a  cart  under  sheaves.  Oh 
how  does  darkness  and  death  spread  itself,  as  a  curtain,  in  this 
once  highly  favoured  land  !  Alas  for  the  people,  for  the  professors 
of  truth  ;  what  will  become  of  them,  unless  they  repent  and  turn 
to  the  Lord.  Parents  and  children,  in  some  places,  are  so 
estranged  from  the  law  and  testimony,  that  many  seem  plunged 
into  the  condition  of  Jerusalem  formerly,  when  this  pathetic 
lamentation  was  taken  xip  by  the  dear  Master;  "O  Jerusalem, 
Jerusalem,  thou  that  killest  the  prophets,  and  stonest  them  which 
are  sent  unto  thee,  how  often  would  I  have  gathered  thy  children 
even  as  a  hen  gathereth  her  chickens  imder  her  wings,  and  ye 
would  not.  Behold  your  house  is  left  unto  you  desolate."  Oh 
how  is  this  verified ;  what  great  desolations,  in  a  reUgious 
sense,  are  apparent  with  many  professors  ;  and  how  are  the 
poor  servants,  that  are  sent  forth  among  them  for  their  reco- 


76  JOURNAL  OP 

very,  as  with  tlieir  lives  in  their  hands,  as  it  were  stoned,  and 
often  so  plunged  into  death  and  sufferings,  as  almost  to  despair 
of  life  !  Oh  the  pangs  that  iny  poor  soul  has  endured  of  late,  in 
many  places ;  so  that  I  had  often  to  say  in  secret,  with  the  holy- 
apostle  ;  "  why  stand  we  in  jeopardy  every  hour  ?"  No  tongue 
can  tell,  nor  is  it  in  the  power  of  language  to  conununicate,  the 
distress  and  anguish,  which  is  sometimes  endured  by  the  poor 
travellers,  in  filling  up  their  measure  of  the  afflictions  of  Christ, 
for  his  body's  sake,  the  Church.  But,  in  this  also,  we  are  some- 
times strengthened  to  rejoice,  that  we  are  accounted  worthy  to 
suffer  with  Him,  that  when  he  is  pleased  to  arise  in  his  own 
strength,  as  the  light  of  the  morning,  we  may  be  permitted  to  reign 
with  Him  ;  and  rejoice  w  ith  joy  unspeakable  and  full  of  glory. 

The  three  following  days,  we  were  at  Concord,  Birmingham, 
and  Bradford,  all  favomed  meetings,  through  fervent  laboui",  and 
the  prevalence  of  truth  ;  may  the  Lord  make  it  effectual,  and 
fasten  it  as  a  nail  in  a  sure  place.  The  21st  we  were  at  East 
Cain,  mostly  silent.  The  22d,  and  first  of  the  week,  we  were 
at  Uwchlan  ;  the  meeting  was  large,  wherein  I  had  to  expose 
the  danger  of  self-righteousness,  or  a  trust  in  natural  religion,  or 
mere  morality ;  showing  that  it  was  no  more  than  the  religion 
of  Atheists,  and  was  generally  the  product  of  pride  and  self-will ; 
and,  however  good  it  may  appear  to  the  natural  unregenerate 
man,  is  as  offensive  in  the  divine  sight,  as  those  more  open  evils, 
which  appear  so  very  reproachful  to  the  eyes  of  men.  I  was 
favoured  by  the  spirit  of  truth,  in  a  large  searching  testimony,  to 
the  convicting  and  humbling  many  hearts,  and  comfort  of  the 
faithful. 

The  23d  we  attended  the  meeting  at  Nantmill,  mostly  in 
silence.  The  three  following  days,  we  were  at  Pikeland,  VaUey, 
and  WiUistown  meetings  ;  all  in  a  good  degree  favoured.  The 
27th  we  were  at  Goshen ;  the  meeting  was  large.  I  had  to 
caution  Friends  against  mixmg  with  the  people  in  their  human 
pohcies,  and  outward  forms  of  government ;  showing  that,  in  aU 
ages,  those,  who  were  called  to  be  the  Lord's  people,  had  been 
iTjined,  or  suffered  great  loss,  by  such  associations ;  and  mani- 
festing clearly  by  scripture  testimony,  and  other  records,  that  our 


ELIAS  IIIGKS. 


7f 


strength  and  preservation  consisted  in  standing  alone,  and  not  to 
be  counted  among  the  people  or  nations  ;  who  were  setting  up 
party,  and  partial  interests,  one  against  another,  which  is  the 
ground  of  war  and  bloodshed :  these  are  actuated  by  the  spirit  of 
pride,  and  wrath,  which  is  always  opposed  to  the  true  Christian 
spirit,  which  breathes  "  peace  on  earth,  and  good  will  to  all  men." 
Those,  therefore,  who  are  in  the  true  Christian  spirit,  cannot  use 
any  coercive  force  or  compulsion  by  any  means  whatever  ;  not 
being  overcome  with  evil,  but  overcoming  evil  with  good.  Al- 
though there  were  many  opposing  spuits  p»esent,  who,  in  their 
creaturely  ^visdom  and  human  policy,  are  pleading  for  those 
kinds  of  associations,  and  taking  part  in  those  political  govern- 
ments, yet  truth  favoured,  and  came  into  a  good  degree  of 
dominion  over  all,  strengthening  and  encouraging  the  true 
travellers  for  Z  ion's  prosperity. 

The  29th,  and  first  of  the  week,  we  atterided  Middletown 
meeting  ;  and,  at  the  fourth  hour  in  the  afternoon,  were  at  Provi- 
dence ;  both  large  crowded  meetings,  more  than  the  houses  could 
contain.  I  was  favoured  by  the  power  of  truth,  in  an  eminent 
manner,  especially  in  the  former  meeting ;  where  many  hearts 
were  deeply  bowed,  from  the  sensible  evidence  of  the  prevalence 
of  divine  power,  which  was  in  dominion  over  all,  tendering  the 
hearts  of  most  present.  It  was  a  precious  season,  worthy  of 
thankful  remembrance,  and  humble  gratitude  to  the  blessed 
Author  of  all  our  rich  mercies  and  blessings, "  who  is  over  all, 
God  blessed  for  ever." 

The  30th  we^  attended  the  monthly  meeting  at  Providence, 
consisting  of  the  particular  meetings  of  Providence,  Middletown, 
Springfield,  and  Chester.  Things  in  this  meeting  appeared  in 
a  low  state,  as  to  the  right  ordering  of  the  affairs  of  the  Church. 
Numerous,  and  great,  were  the  apparent  deviations  among  them ; 
many  of  their  youth  were  gone  out  into  the  foolish  fashions  and 
vain  customs  of  the  world  to  such  a  degree,  as  r\ot  to  retain  any 
marks  of  true  primitive  plainness.  "  O  how  is  the  gold  become 
dim ;  how  is  the  most  fine  gold  changed  !"  Many  parents,  who 
retain  a  good  degree  of  outward  plainness  themselves,  for  want 
of  dwelhng  enough  in  the  pure  spring  of  divine  hfe,  have  suf- 


78 


JOURNAL 


fei  ed  the  eye  of  their  minds  to  be  so  far  Winded  by  the  god  of  this 
world,  as  not  only  to  suffer  these  improper  indulgences  in  their 
families,  and  among  their  childien,  but,  in  some  instances,  are 
ready  to  plead  for  them.  The  sense  of  this  much  affected  my 
mind,  and  under  this  exercise  I  was  led  forth  in  a  hne  of  close 
searching  labour  among  them,  to  stir  up  Friends  to  more  diligence, 
and  honest  care  in  those  respects ;  which,  1  trust,  afforded  a 
degree  of  comfort  and  strength  to  the  honest-hearted,  and  pro- 
cured peace  to  my  own  mind,  which  is  a  tieasure  I  prefer  to  all 
this  world's  glory  jftld  honour. 

The  1st  of  5th  month  we  attended  the  meetings  of  Springfield, 
and  Haverford  ;  both  favoured,  profitable  seasons.  The  2d  we 
were  at  Newtown,  where,  in  a  line  of  close  searching  labour,  I 
was  led  to  show  the  danger  of  trusting  the  salvation  of  ovir  souls 
to  any  thing  short  of  a  full  surrender  of  our  wills,  and  an  entire 
dedication  of  our  hearts  to  the  Lord,  in  an  humble  circumspect 
walking  before  Him  ;  and  separating  ourselves  from  the  world, 
its  spirit,  manners,  maxims,  governments,  honours  and  customs ; 
all  of  which  are  polluted,  and  arising  from  the  lusts  of  the  flesh, 
the  lusts  of  the  eye  and  the  pride  of  life.  Truth  rose  into  vic- 
tory, softening  many  hearts,  and  comforting  and  strengthening 
the  faithful.  Surely  God  is  good  to  Israel,  although  in  a  state 
of  great  revolting  ;  yet  he  delighteth  in  showing  himself  merci- 
ful; praised  and  magnified  be  his  great  and  adorable  name,  over 
all  for  ever. 

The  3d  and  4th  we  attended  meetings  at  Radnor  and  Merion ; 
and  then  passed  on  to  Philadelphia,  to  attend  their  quarterly  meet- 
ing, which  opened  on  the  5th,  with  a  meeting  for  Ministers  and 
Elders,  and  closed  on  third  day  the  8th  of  the  month,  with  a 
meeting  for  the  youth,  and  one  for  the  black  people,  in  the  after- 
noon. I  think,  in  general,  it  was  a  time  of  favour,  through 
much  hard  labour  in  the  several  sittings.  Indeed  we  have  no 
reason  to  expect  to  come  at  the  spring  any  other  way,  than  by 
faithfully  digging,  as  with  our  staves,  while  there  remains  so  much 
rubbish  on  the  well's  mouth. 

The  9th  we  attended  the  select  quarterly  meeting  at  Abington ; 
and  the  day  following  the  quarterly  meeting  for  discipUne.  I 


FXtAS  HICKS, 


79 


was  engaged  among  them,  in  each  meeting,  and  the  favour 
extended  was  cause  of  thankfuhiess  to  the  honest-hearted.  The 
lltli  we  returned  to  Philadelphia  ;  and,  in  the  afternoon,  passed 
over  the  river'  Delaware  to  Haddonfield  in  West  Jersey.  The 
12th  we  attended  a  monthly  meeting  at  Upper  Evesham  ;  it  was 
a  low  time,  with  not  much  of  that  divine  hfe  and  power,  which 
only  can  qualify  for  the  right  conducting  of  discipline,  to  be  felt 
among  them  ;  and  left  them  without  much  relief  of  mmd. 

The  13th  of  the  month,  and  fust  of  the  week,  we  attended 
meetings  at  Evesham,  and  Cropwell ;  in  the  former,  I  was 
helped  to  labour  pretty  largely  in  testimony,  to  the  comfort  of  a 
few  honest-hearted,  and  a  number  of  youth  with  tender  mmds ; 
but  the  greater  part  of  the  meeting  appeared  to  be  m  a  state  of 
great  msensibility  and  ease ;  a  situation  which  is  generally  cal- 
lous 10  all  the  tender  mvitations,  and  entreaty  of  thek  friends, 
who  are  in  travail  for  their  redemption  and  salvation ;  and  too 
much  hke  the  deaf  adder,  which  will  not  listen  to  the  voice  of  the 
charmer,  although  he  charm  ever  so  wisely.  In  the  latter  meet- 
ing, I  was  silent  as  to  ministry. 

The  14th  we  attended  the  monthly  meeting  at  Haddonfield, 
in  which  I  laboured,  m  the  ability  received,  for  their  help  and 
improvement.  But  alas,  some  meetings  are  so  lost  to  the  hfe  of 
true  reUgion,  and  so  many,  who  go  under  our  profession,  are 
sunk  into  such  a  state  of  indifference  and  lukewarmness,  that 
the  affairs  of  the  Church  are  too  much  conducted  in  a  kind  of 
rotation,  and  creaturcly  wisdom,  void  of  that  true  weight,  and 
feeling  sensibihty,  which  only  gives  right  quahfication  for  service 
in  the  Chiuch ;  hence  great  weakness  ensues,  and  the  way  of 
right  reformation  is  closed,  and  truth  prevented  from  arising  in 
its  primitive  splendour  and  beauty. 

I  The  15th  we  were  at  Moore's  Town  and  Rancocus ;  in  the 
former  meeting,  the  power  that  "  cut  Rahab,  and  wounded  the 
dragon,"  manifestly  prevailed  to  the  tendering  many  hearts. 
Truth  came  into  victory  over  all ;  praised  for  ever  be  the  right 
worthy  name  of  Israel's  King,  who,  in  holy  condescending  love, 
was  pleased  to  make  bare  his  arm  for  our  help  ;  and  once  more 
redeemed  my  poor  soul  out  of  adversity,  and  the  deep  depresshig 


80 


JOURNAL  OP 


baptisms,  which  for  some  days  past  it  had  been  plunged  into,  by 
suffering  with  the  seed,  whicli  Ues  pressed  down  in  the  hearts 
of  many  lukewarm  worldly  minded  professors,  as  a  cart  with 
sheaves.  From  thence  we  passed  on,  having  meetings  at  Mans- 
field Neck,  Burlington,  Mansfield,  and  Bordentown ;  which 
were  all  favoured  meetings,  truth  being  near  for  our  help. 
J  The  20th,  and  first  of  the  week,  we  were  at  Trenton  ;  the 
meeting  was  large,  many  of  the  town's  people,  of  other  profes- 
sions, came  in.  Strength  was  made  manifest  in  the  midst  of 
weakness,  and,  as  tnith  arose,  the  gospel  was  preached  in  the 
clear  demonstration  of  the  spirit ;  many  hearts  were  tendered 
and  comforted,  and  the  few  faithful  made  to  rejoice,  in  a  grateful 
sense  of  the  Lord's  mercies. 

The  22d  we  were  at  Stony  Brook  meeting,  wherein  my  heart 
was  made  glad  through  holy  help,  and  I  was  enabled  to  labour 
among  them  in  truth's  authority,  to  the  comfort  of  the  willing- 
hearted,  and  the  solid  peace  of  my  own  mind.  The  two  follow- 
ing days  we  were  at  Plauifield,  and  Rahway ;  in  the  latter 
meeting  I  was  wholly  silent ;  but  the  former  was  a  time  of  close 
labour,  in  a  clear  plain  way,  to  stir  up  the  minds  of  (he  people  to 
more  diligence,  and  an  inward  humble  walking  with  the  Lord ; 
which  appeared  to  be  too  much  wanting  among  them. 

The  25th  we  attended  an  appointed  meeting  at  Newark,  a 
town  wherein  no  Friends  reside.  The  meeting  was  small,  and 
those  gathered  appeared  mostly  in  a  loose  uncultivated  state  of 
mind  ;  yet,  I  believe,  there  were  some  thoughtful  persons  present ; 
and,  I  trust,  the  meeting  was  in  some  degree  profitable.  I  left 
them  with  peace  of  mind,  and  proceeded  that  evening  to  New- 
York  to  attend  the  yearly  meeting,  which  was  to'  be  opened 
there  on  the  next  day,  with  a  meeting  for  Ministers  and  Elders. 
After  the  first  sitting  of  the  meeting,  I  rode  home,  not  only  to 
see  my  dear  wife  and  family,  from  whom  I  had  been  absent 
more  than  five  months,  but  also  to  assist  them  in  getting  out  to 
the  yearly  meetmg.  Our  rejoicing  was  precious,  and  mutual,  in 
and  under  a  sense  of  the  Lord's  mercy  and  goodness,  for  whose 
gracious  preservation  and  help,  in  tliis  arduous  journey,  my  spirit 
was  made  to  bow  in  himible  adoration  and  praise,  beyond  the 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


81 


expression  of  language.  Oh  my  soul,  what  canst  thou  render 
unto  the  Lord  for  all  his  benefits  !  Nothing  can  be  more  accept- 
able, than  an  entiie  surrender  of  thine  all  to  his  holy  disposing ; 
and  to  endeavour,  as  at  the  present  time,  to  continue  humbly  to 
worship  at  the  footstool  of  his  holy  throne  of  grace.  Amen. 

I  was  absent  from  home  in  this  journey  about  five  months  and 
two  weeks,  and  rode  about  sixteen  hundred  miles,  and  attended 
about  one  hundred  and  forty-three  meetings. 


11 


82 


JOURNAL  OP 


CHAPTER  IV. 

Visit  to  Connecticut,  1799.— Visit  to  Oblong  and  Nine  Partners,  1800.— Visit 
on  Long  Island,  1800. — Visit  to  Friends  in  New-Jersey,  and  Pennsylva- 
nia, 1801. 

Having  felt  a  concern,  for  some  tinie,  to  pay  a  religious  visit 
to  some  towns  anil  places  in  Connecticut,  and,  in  my  way,  to  be 
with  the  few  Friends  at  West  Hartford,  I  laid  my  prospect  before 
my  friends  in  the  fall  of  the  year  1799,  and  received  a  minute 
of  concinrence  and  imity  from  our  monthly  meeting.  I  left 
home  the  26th  of  10th  month,  and  proceeded  to  Oblong,  in  order 
to  meet  a  committee  of  our  yearly  meeting,  appointed  this  year, 
to  visit  the  quarterly  meetings  of  Nine  Partners  and  Oblong,  and 
the  monthly  meetings  belonging  thereto  ;  a  proposition  having 
been  made  for  a  new  arrangement  of  those  meetings,  so  as  to 
establish  another  quarterly  meeting.  I  accompanied  the  commit- 
tee in  the  attendance  of  both  quarterly  meetings. 

After  this,  we  proceeded  into  Connecticut,  attending  meetings 
in  our  way  to  West  Hartford,  in  the  following  manner,  viz : 
three  in  the  town  of  Sharon,  one  at  Cornwall,  one  at  Goshen, 
and  one  at  Litchfield.  They  were  all  favoured  meetings.  Four 
of  them  were  held  in  meeting-houses  belonging  to  the  Presbyte- 
rians. The  latter  meeting  was  but  small,  considering  the  large- 
ness of  the  town,  and  the  great  openness  manifested  by  their 
leading  members  ;  there  were  three  of  theii-  ministers,  and  some 
other  leading  men  present.  Truth  was  prevalently  manifest 
in  this  meeting,  tendering  and  comforting  the  honest-hearted,  a 
number  of  whom,  I  believe,  were  at  the  meeting,  whose  words 
and  conduct  clearly  manifested  a  hearty  thankfidness  for,  and 
satisfaction  with,  the  opportunity.    Although  the  great  opposition 


KI.IAS  HICKS. 


83 


those  meet  with,  in  coming  out  of  their  old  traditions,  may  pre- 
vent any  open  and  manifest  effects  for  the  present,  yet,  I  beheve, 
it  will  be  as  bread  cast  upon  the  waters,  which  will  return  after 
many  days;  so  that  his  word  which  goeth  forth,  may  not  return 
void,  but  will  accomplish  the  purpose  for  which  it  was  sent,  to 
the  praise  and  glory  of  his  own  worthy  name,  "  who  is  over  all, 
God  blessed  for  ever." 

After  this  meeting,  we  passed  directly  to  West  Hartford,  and 
lodged  with  our  friend  Ebenezer  Crosby,  whofee  daughter  Abi- 
gail had  come  in  company  with  us  from  Nine  Partners.  She 
was  a  discreet  religious  young  woman,  whose  mind,  I  appre- 
hended, was  under  the  operation  of  the  forming  hand,  for  her 
good ;  may  she  be  preserved  in  faith  and  patience,  under  the 
varied  turnings  thereof  upon  her  ;  and  then,  I  liave  no  doubt,  she 
will  become  a  useful  member  in  the  Church. 

The  next  day  we  rode  to  Springfield,  about  twenty-six  miles 
north  of  this  place  ;  and  attended  a  meeting  there  the  following- 
day.  Although  the  people  appeared  generally  raw  and  ignorant, 
as  to  the  internal  work  of  true  religion  on  the  heart,  being  mostly 
of  those  persuasions,  whose  doctrines  lead  them  to  place  too  much 
trust  and  dependence  on  the  external  works  of  a  Saviour  with- 
out them^  and  an  imputative  righteousness  ;  and  not  expe- 
riencing the  internal  work  of  sanctificution,  wrought  by  the 
spirit  and  power  of  a  Saviour  within  them  ;  which  is  a  very 
dangerous  errour ;  nevertheless,  I  was  favoured  by  the  Lord's 
power  to  relieve  my  mind,  and  divers  appeared  to  be  tenderly 
affected,  and  manifested  much  satisfaction  with  the  opportunity, 
as  did  the  auditory  in  general. 

We  rode  back  that  afternoon  to  West  Hartford,  and  the  day 
following,  the  first  of  the  week,  and  17th  of  11th  month,  we 
attended  Friends'  meeting  ;  and  another  at  the  house  of  our 
friend  Ebenezer  Crosby,  in  the  evening.  They  were  full  meet- 
ings, many  of  other  societies  attending,  mostly  Presbyterians. 
Truth  favoured,  in  an  eminent  degree,  in  both  opportunities,  but 
especially  in  the  latter,  wherein  it  rose  into  great  dominion,  break- 
ing down,  and  apparently  reducing  every  contrary  spirit.  A  re- 
markable calm,  and  general  solemnity  was  felt  to  spread  over  the 


84 


JOURNAL  OP 


assembly,  to  the  solid  rejoicing  and  comfort  of  many  hearts,  and 
the  exaltation  of  t  he  cause  and  testimony  of  our  God  ;  who,  for 
this,  and  his  multiplied  favours  and  blessings,  vouchsafed  from 
time  to  time,  is  worthy  of  aU  honour,  dominion  and  glory,  both 
now  and  for  ever.  ( 

The  next  day,  feeling  my  mind  drawn  to  some  of  the  adjacent 
towns,  we  rode  about  ten  miles,  to  a  place  called  Perquanock, 
a  thickly  settled  village  in  the  west  part  of  the  township  of  West 
Windsor.  We  had  a  j)recious  opportunity  there  that  evening, 
in  a  large  school-house.  Although  the  notice  was  very  short,  it 
being  late  in  the  afternoon  when  we  came  there,  yet,  when  we 
reached  the  meeting,  which  began  at  the  sixth  hour,  the  house 
was  nearly  full,  and  soon  after  taking  our  seats  was  crowded 
with  as  many  as  it  could  well  contain.  A  commendable  stillness 
was  maintained  during  the  silent  part  of  the  meeting,  which  we 
thought  a  little  uncommon,  as  the  people  were  generally  stran- 
gers to  us,  and  our  ways.  After  a  time  of  solemn  waiting,  my 
mouth  was  opened  in  a  clear  full  testimony  ;  wherein  the  doc- 
trines of  the  gospel  were  largely  and  plainly  held  forth,  in  the 
demonstration  of  the  spirit,  and  with  power,  tendering  many 
hearts,  and  to  the  apparent  satisfaction  of  the  people  in  general ; 
many  expressing  their  thankfulness  for  the  favour.  We  left 
them  with  the  answer  of  peace  in  our  own  minds,  and  in  a  full 
persuasion,  that  the  Lord  is  secretly  at  work  in  the  minds  of 
many  of  the  people  in  these  parts,  in  order  to  deliver  them  from 
the  power  of  their  dark  and  blind  leaders,  who,  for  a  long  time, 
by  their  carnal  and  lifeless  teachings  and  doctrines,  and  many 
vai7i  traditions,  have  formed  almost  a  total  eclipse  between  God 
and  their  souls.  May  the  Lord  hasten  this  good  work  in  his  own 
time,  that  those  merchants  of  Babylon,  who  are  trafficking  in  the 
souls  of  the  people,  those  blind  guides  may  be  so  discovered,  that 
no  man  may  buy  their  merchandize  any  more. 

The  day  after,  we  attended  a  meeting  in  Windsor  town ;  the 
people  here  seemed  to  be  more  under  the  dark  power  of  their 
teachers,  being  much  blinded  with  the  prejudice  of  education,  so 
that  the  meeting  was  but  small.  Nevertheless,  truth  favoured 
rae  with  ability  to  preach  the  gospel,  with  a  good  degree  of 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


86 


divine  authority,  to  the  comfort  and  edification  of  some  seeking 
minds  present.  The  two  following  days  we  attended  Friends' 
meeting  at  Hartford,  the  latter  of  which  was  appointed  by  our 
friend  Jervis  Johnson,  from  Ireland.  Both  were  comfortable 
seasons. 

The  sixth  of  the  week,  and  22d  of  the  month,  we  rode  to  the 
city  of  Hartford  ;  and  way  opening  for  an  opportunity  with  the 
people,  a  meeting  was  accordingly  appointed  at  the  sixth  hour 
in  the  evening,  to  be  held  in  a  large  meeting-house  belonging  to 
the  Presbyterians.  A  great  number  of  the  citizens  assembled, 
supposed  to  be  near  a  thousand,  among  whom  were  most  of  the 
principal  inhabitants.  The  Lord,  in  whom  was  our  trust,  was 
graciously  near,  and  furnished  us  with  ability  to  conduct  the 
meeting  to  the  satisfaction  and  peace  of  our  own  minds  ;  and  to 
the  edification  of  many  present,  and  general  satisfaction  of  the 
assembly. 

•  We  rested  on  seventh  day,  and,  on  first  day,  we  were  again 
at  Friends'  meeting  at  West  Hartford  ;  and  notice  that  we  were 
to  be  there  having  spread,  a  considerable  number  of  the  neigh- 
bouring inhabitants  and  some  from  the  city  came  in.  It  was  a 
season  of  high  favour  ;  many  weighty  tmths  of  the  gospel  were 
clearly  opened,  and  the  way  of  life  and  salvation  placed  before 
the  minds  of  the  people ;  and  a  general  solemnity  appeared  to 
reign,  which  was  manifest  in  almost  every  countenance,  silencing 
every  opposite  spiiit.  The  heaits  of  Friends,  with  my  own  spirit, 
were  bowed  in  humble  acknowledgment  and  gratitude  to  the 
Lord  our  helper,  for  granting  us  so  great  a  mercy ;  and  under  a 
solemn  sense  thereof  we  parted,  and  took  leave  of  each  other  in 
great  nearness  of  spirit. 

On  second  day  we  turned  our  faces  homeward,  attending 
meetings  in  our  way  at  Cambridge  and  Woodbury  ;  at  the  latter 
place  we  had  two  meetings ;  we  also  had  meetings  at  Middlesex, 
and  Stamford,  and  again  at  Middlesex  on  first  day ;  these  were 
generally  seasons  of  divine  favour,  edifying  and  instructive. 
After  this  we  passed  on  into  the  state  of  New- York,  and  had 
meetings  the  six  following  days,  at  Rye,  White  Plains,  North 
Castle,  Shapaqua,  Amawalk,  and  Croton.    As  my  mind  was  led, 


86 


JOURNAL  OF 


in  faith  and  pat  ience,  to  close  in  with  the  baptismal  influence  of 
the  spirit  of  truth,  it  was  reduced  into  a  state  of  suffering  with 
the  precious  seed  in  the  hearts  of  the  people,  and  their  divers 
states  were  felt,  and  way  made  to  divide  the  word  aright  to  those 
assembled  ;  who  were  a  mixed  number  of  Friends  and  others. 
Truth  was  exalted,  and  set  over  every  contrary  sphit,  and  the 
honest-hearted  comforted  and  encouraged  to  pei'severe  in  the 
"  work  of  righteousness,"  which  "shall  be  peace  ;  and  the  effect 
of  righteousness,  quietness  and  assurance  for  ever." 

The  following  first  day  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  West 
Chester ;  and  in  the  afternoon  we  had  an  appointed  meeting 
at  East  Chester,  principally  among  those  not  of  our  society. 
We  had  cause,  hi  both  these  meetings,  to  magnify  and  adore 
the  name  of  the  Lord,  who  deigned  to  be  near  with  his  saving 
Iielp,  and  furnished  with  ability  to  preach  the  gospel  of  life  and 
salvation,  in  the  clear  demonstration  of  the  spirit ;  the  power 
attending,  convicting  and  tendering  many  hearts.  The  few 
Frieiids,  who  dwell  in  that  place,  were  strengthened  and  en- 
couraged, and  my  spirit  refreshed  and  made  to  rejoice,  in  those 
closing  opportunities.  After  this  I  returned  home,  and  found  my 
dear  wife  and  tender  children  all  well,  to  our  mutual  rejoicing. 
I  was  out  about  six  weeks,  and  attended  about  tliirty  meetings, 
and  two  quarterly  meetings. 

On  my  return  from  my  late  visit  in  Comiecticut,  1  felt  my 
mind  not  fully  clear  of  a  prospect  I  then  liad  of  a  few  other 
places  ;  and  the  way  opening  with  greater  clearness,  and  feeling 
a  motion  of  love  to  draw  towards  again  attending  the  ensuing 
quarterly  mQetings  of  Oblong  and  Nine  Partners,  after  attending 
our  quarterly  meeting  at  Westbury,  in  1st  month,  1800, 1  set  out 
with  Amos  Wlntson  as  my  companion.  We  attended  Purchase 
meeting  on  first  day,  which  I  sat  in  silence,  and  passed  from 
thence  to  Oblong,  and  attended  theu-  quarterly  meeting.  After 
this  we  had  a  meeting  at  Kent,  in  our  way  to  Nine  Partners. 
The  people  of  this  place  are  mostly  of  the  Presbyterian  society, 
and  a  considerable  nvimber  assembled,  and  behaved  in  an  orderly 
manner.  I  trust  the  opportunity  was  a  season  of  profit,  and 
that  the  labour  bestowed  may  be,  to  some  of  those  present,  as 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


87 


bread  cast  upon  the  waters.  After  attending  the  quarterly  meet- 
ing of  Nine  Partners,  we  had  two  meetings  in  our  way  to  Corn- 
Avail  and  Goslien,  among  those  not  of  our  society,  though  nothing 
very  remarkable  occurred  in  either.  We  had  a  comfortable 
meeting  at  Cornwall,  and  visited  Charles  Richards  and  some 
others,  who  appeared  to  be  gomg  into  a  separation  from  Friends, 
having  aheady  set  up  a  separate  meeting,  for  which  they  were 
not  long  after  disowned.  They  had  given  way  to  some  very 
inconsistent  notions,  m  which  they  became  so  hardened  as  not 
to  take  the  tender  counsel  and  advice  of  thek  friends,  who 
laboured  much  with  them  for  their  recovery.  From  thence  we 
returned  home,  having  a  few  meetings  in  our  way,  mostly 
among  people  of  other  persuasions.  We  got  weir  home  on  first 
day  evening,  the  16th  of2d  inonth,  after  attending  the  morning 
meeting  at  New- York.  As  I  took  this  little  journey  in  part  to 
fill  up  what  seemed  lacking  in  the  other,  I  now  felt  clear,  and 
my  muid  was  accompanied  with  true  peace,  which  raised  in  me 
hmnble  acknowledgments  and  gratilude  to  the  great  and  blessed 
Author  of  all  our  mercies. 

Soon  after  my  retmn  from  the  above  httle  journey,  I  felt  my 
mind  drawn,  in  the  renewed  feehngs  of  gospel  love,  to  pay  a 
religious  visit  to  some  of  the  inliabitants  of  our  island,  not  of  our 
profession.  After  having  opened  my  prospect  to  Friends  and 
obtamed  the  unity  and  concurrence  of  our  monthly  meeting,  I 
performed  that  service,  in  the  latter  part  of  the  fall,  and  begin- 
ning of  the  winter  following.  I  was  out  from  home  twenty- 
seven  days,  rode  about  one  hmidred  and  ninety  miles,  and 
attended  thirty-five  meetings  ;  only  two  of  which  were  held  in 
our  meetmg-houses.  They  were  generally  seasons  of  great  fa 
vour,  in  which  my  muid  was  deeply  bowed,  imder  a  humihating 
sense  of  the  Lord's  mercy,  extended  from  day  to  day,  not  only 
in  opening  the  hearts  of  the  people  to  receive  us  and  our  testi- 
mony with  manifestation  of  much  love  and  good  will ;  but  also 
in  fur  nishing  matter  suitably  adapted  to  the  states  of  those  assem- 
bled. Truth  was  raised  into  victory,  m  a  remarkable  manner, 
in  almost  every  meeting ;  and  in  several,  to  a  very  eminent 
degree,  evea  beyond,  as  1  thought,  what  I  had  ever  before  expe- 


88 


JOURNAL  OP 


rienced.  It  ran  over  like  oil.  All  appeared  broken  down  by  its 
precious  and  embalming  influence,  in  which  the  Lord  was  wor- 
shipped, and  his  gieat  and  glorious  name  praised  and  exalted 
over  all,  who  is  worthy  for  ever. 

In  the  spring  of  1801,  feeling  my  mind  engaged,  in  the  love  of 
the  gospel,  to  proceed  in  a  visit  to  Friends,  in  some  parts  of  Jersey 
and  Pennsylvania,  and  some  places  adjacent  thereto,  I  left  home 
the  11th  of  4th  month,  with  the  concurrence  and  unity  of  my 
friends ;  and  with  Edmund  Willis  as  a  companion.  We  rode  to 
New- York,  and  attended  Friends'  forenoon  and  afternoon  meet- 
ings there,  on  first  day.  Although  the  life  of  religion  appeared  at 
a  low  ebb  with  Friends  of  that  city,  in  too  general  a  manner ; 
yet  a  number  of  the  younger  class,  and  some  more  advanced  in 
hfe,  gave  some  hope  of  improvement.  My  mmd  was  deeply  en- 
gaged among  them.  And,  tlu-ough  the  condescending  goodness 
of  the  Shepherd  of  Israel,  strength  was  witnessed  to  preach  the 
gospel  in  the  demonsti-ation  of  the  spirit,  and  with  power ;  inso- 
much that  a  fresh  visitation  was  extended  to  many  present. 
May  it  rest,  and  be  fastened  by  the  Master  of  assemblies,  as  a 
naU  in  a  sure  place,  to  the  honour  of  his  gi'eat  and  glorious 
name,  who  is  the  blessed  Author  and  finisher  of  every  good  word 
and  work. 

On  second  day  we  left  the  city,  and  passed  to  Elizabethtown 
Point,  Woodbridge  and  upper  Freehold.  And  on  fourth  day, 
we  attended  a  meeting  in  the  neighbomhood,  called  Robbins' 
meeting,  at  the  usual  time  ;  and  in  the  afternoon  attended  Upper 
Freehold  meeting.  The  former  was  usually  a  small,  weak  meet- 
ing ;  but  information  of  our  intention  to  be  there,  being  generally 
spread,  many  came  in  who  were  not  members ;  and  it  proved  a 
profitable  edifying  season,  worthy  of  grateful  remembrance.  The 
latter  was  rather  a  season  of  suffering  with  the  seed.  I  was 
mostly  shut  up  as  to  any  ministerial  communication.  The  next 
day  we  attended  the  meetings  of  Crosswicks,  and  Upper  Spring- 
field ;  at  both  of  which  strength  was  afforded  to  communicate 
what  opened  in  the  line  of  duty,  in  such  a  manner  as  to  find 
relief' of  mind,  which  I  account  a  great  favour. 

We  rode  to  Philadelphia  on  sixth  day,  and  the  next  day  the 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


89 


yearly  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Eiders  opened;  and  on  the 
ensuing  second  day,  the  yearly  meeting  for  discipline,  which  was 
very  large,  and  continued,  by  adjournments,  through  the  week, 
and  closed  on  seventh  day.  Many  weighty  subjects  were  opened 
for  deliberation.  But  through  the  prevalence  and  mixture  of 
unsubjected  spirits,  who  were  too  forward  and  active  in  their 
own  uninortified  wills,  much  weakness  was  apparent.  This 
greatly  increased  the  burden  of  the  Uving,  and  truly  baptized 
members,  of  which  class  there  were  a  very  considerable  number, 
who  were  deeplj^  engaged  for  the  promotion  of  the  cause  of  truth, 
and  that  the  family  at  large  might  lie  kept  in  decent  and  com- 
mendable order,  consistent  with  the  gospel  of  Christ ;  and  become 
established  on  the  ancient  foundation  of  our  holy  profession. 
These  were  nearly  united  in  spirit  and  in  travail  foi'  Zion's  aris- 
ing, and  the  Lord  was  graciously  pleased  to  water  them  together, 
at  seasons,  with  the  descendings  of  heavenly  dew ;  by  which, 
encouragement  was  witnessed,  to  persevere  in  patience,  and  in 
thankfid  acknowledgment,  for  his  continued  mercy ;  and  they 
were  favoured  to  return  from  their  annual  solemnity  with  re- 
joicing, for  all  the  good  the  Lord  had  been  pleased  to  favour  them 
with. 

We  remained  in  the  city  over  first  day,  and  attended  the  fore- 
noon meeting  at  Market-street,  which  was  very  large.  My 
spirit  was  set  at  liberty,  and  ability  afforded  to  divide  the  word 
among  them,  according  to  their  varied  conditions,  in  a  large 
searching  and  effectual  testimony ;  whereby  a  holy  solemnity 
was  witnessed  to  spread  over  the  meeting,  to  the  great  rejoicing 
of  the  honest-hearted.  But  alas,  how  oft  are  those  seasons  of 
comfort  interrupted  and  hurt,  by  the  indiscreet  forwardness  of 
some  who  have  been  called  to  publish  the  gospel ;  but,  for  want 
of  dwelling  enough  in  the  root,  have  branched  out  in  the  fertility 
of  their  own  natural  abilities,  and  become  too  active  in  their  own 
qarits ;  and  are  thereby  not  only  in  danger  of  losing  their  gifts, 
and  falling  into  a  bewildered  state,  but  often  hurt  the  service,  and 
take  off  the  savour  of  many  of  our  most  favoured  solemnities. 
This  was  affectingly  the  ca.se  at  this  time,  by  the  addition  of  a 
long,  but  very  lifeless  testimony;  and  although  deUvered  in 


90 


JOURNAL  OF 


sound  words,  yet  being  destitute  of  the  life  and  power,  tended 
greatly  to  burden  the  living,  and  grieve  the  upright  in  heart. 
Great  advantage  would  redound  to  the  Church  in  general,  and 
to  this  class  of  its  members  in  particular,  if  those,  who  stand  in 
the  station  of  Elders,  were  more  deeply  centered  in  their  minds 
to  the  well-spring  of  eternal  life ;  waiting  for,  and  feeling  after  a 
spirit  of  right  discernment,  that  so  they  might  be  enabled  to  judge 
righteous  judgment,  and  distinguish  rightly  between  the  living 
and  the  dead.  Then  would  the  liand  be  seasonably  laid  upon 
the  head  of  this  transforming  spirit,  and  those,  in  danger  of 
being  deceived  thereby,  witness  preservation. 

On  second  day,  the  27th  of  4th  month,  we  left  the  city,  and 
passed  over  into  West  Jersey,  in  order  to  take  some  meetings 
which  I  had  not  been  at.  We  were  at  five  in  the  course  of  the 
week  ;  and  although  the  life  and  virtue  of  true  religion  appeared 
to  be  at  a  low  ebb,  among  those  professing  with  us,  in  too  gene- 
ral a  manner,  in  those  meetings  ;  yet  as  public  notice  was  given 
of  our  attendance,  many  of  the  neighbouring  inhabitants  came 
in.  There  were,  I  beheve,  some  seeking  minds  among  them, 
and  these  generally  add  life  to  meetings,  and  draw  down  the 
compassion,  and  tender  regaid  of  the  heavenly  parent,  who,  in 
his  condescending  goodness,  made  way  for  the  gospel  to  be  preach- 
ed among  them,  in  those  several  meetmgs,  in  a  good  degree  of 
divine  authority.  Many  minds  were  tenderly  affected,  and  the 
assemblies  solemnized ;  the  lukewarm  aroused,  and  the  hypo- 
critical, worldly-minded  professors  forewarned  of  the  danger  theh 
situations  exposed  them  to.  My  spirit  was  made  thankful  for 
the  rehef  I  obtained,  although  through  a  line  of  deep  inward 
travail  and  baptism  with  the  oppressed  seed ;  but  the  Lord's 
power  rose  in  victory  over  all,  to  the  honour  of  his  right  worthy 
name,  who  will  be  glorified  in  his  saints,  and  sanctified  in  all 
those  who  come  near  him. 

We  retmiied  to  the  city  on  seventh  day,  and  attended  the  quar- 
terly meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders ;  in  which  I  was  led,  in  a  short, 
but  relievmg  testimony,  to  call  Friends'  attention  back  to  primi- 
tive simplicity  and  integrity ;  the  great  need  there  is  of  being 
more  separated  from  the  world,  its  spirit,  manners,  maxims,  and 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


91 


customs  ;  and  to  live  daily  under  an  exercise  and  traVaU,  for  the 
arising  of  that  life  and  power,  which  only  can  enable  us  to  sepa- 
rate from  those  thmgs,  that  have  a  tendency  to  hurt  and  defile ; 
and  through  which  life  and  power,  Ministers  and  Elders  can 
only  be  rightly  qualified  to  lead  and  feed  the  flock,  over  which 
the  Holy  Ghost  hath  made  them  overseers,  consistent  with  divine 
appointment.  For  want  of  this  fervent  labour  and  travail, 
great  weakness  is  apparent  amongst  us  as  a  people,  in  many 
places  ;  and  the  great  and  worthy  name  by  which  we  are  called, 
ofttimes  dishonoured,  to  the  grief  of  the  upright  in  heart,  who  are 
exercised  for  Israel's  prosperity,  and  Jerusalem's  peace  ;  and  who 
go  almost  daily,  as  with  their  hands  on  their  loins  for  very  pain. 

On  first  day,  we  attended  the  north  meeting,  in  the  morning, 
and  that  in  Market-street  in  the  afternoon.  They  were  both 
instructive  edifying  seasons  ;  wherein  I  had  full  opportunity  to  re- 
lieve my  mind,  being,  through  gracious  assistance,  led  in  the  clear 
openings  of  the  divine  light,  to  set  forth  the  great  danger  of 
mixing  in  with  the  spirit  of  the  world,  which  leads  to  strife  and 
contention,  and  the  promotion  of  parties  and  party  animosities  in 
civil  governments  :  all  of  which  have  a  direct  tendency  to  engen- 
der war  and  bloodshed,  and  are  therefore  inconsistent  for  us,  as 
a  people,  to  touch  or  take  part  with,  or  to  suffer  our  minds  to  be 
agitated  thereby  ;  as  it  always  has  led,  and  always  will  lead  those, 
who  are  leavened  therewith,  out  of  the  meek  spirit  of  the  gospel, 
which  breathes  "  peace  on  earth,  and  good  will  to  all  men."  This 
was  the  Lord's  doing  and  marvellous  in  our  eyes.  Friends 
were  much  comforted  and  united  in  this  day's  exercise,  and  my 
spirit  made  joyful  in  the  saving  help,  and  continued  mercy  of 
Israel's  true  Shepherd,  who  is  over  all,  worthy,  and  blessed  for  ever. 

The  quarterly  meeting  Avas  held  on  second  day,  which  was 
likewise  a  time  of  favour.  Divers  communications  were  made, 
tending  to  unite  Friends  in  an  exercise  for  the  advancement  of 
the  testimony,  that  the  munerous  causes  of  weakness,  which 
brought  pain,  and  many  deep  baptisms  on  the  living  part  of  the 
body,  might  be  done  away,  and  the  camp  cleansed. 

I  left  the  city  on  third  day  morning,  with  a  peaceful  mind, 
and  rode  to  Frankford ;  and  attended  a  meeting  there  in  the 


92 


JOURNAL  OP 


forenoon,  and  one  at  Germantown  in  the  aAemoonj  in  both  of 
which  I  laboured  in  the  abihty  received.  The  first  was  a  very 
searcliing  season  ;  tilings  were  laid  open  in  such  a  manner,  that 
the  dead,  in  some  instances,  seemed  to  be  raised,  and  that  power 
felt,  which  opened  the  graves  formerly  ;  and  some  of  those, 
who  were  settled  down  in  their-  jwUuted  rests,  had  their  heavens 
shaken,  and  theh  rocks  made  to  melt,  by  the  fervent  heat  of 
the  divine  word,  which  was  as  a  fire  and  a  hammer.  Truth 
prevailed,  and  was  eminently  hi  dominion  over  aU. 

On  fourth  and  fift.h  days,  we  attended  the  quarterly  meeting  of 
Abington  ;  in  which  I  was  exercised  in  a  line  of  close  fervent 
labour,  both  in  the  meeting  for  Ministers  and  Elders,  and  the 
quarterly  meeting  at  large.  It  was  a  season  which  gave  hope 
of  some  improvement  in  many,  but  others  appeared  too  much  in 
a  state  of  self-sufficiency,  a  most  deplorable  condition,  sickly 
and  wounded,  and  wliicli  refuses  to  be  healed.  For  these,  my 
mind  felt  pained.  O,  that  they  might,  ere  the  day  of  their 
visitation  pass  over,  untness  their  eyes  anomted  with  the  eye- 
salve  of  the  gospel,  that  so  they  might  be  brought  to  see  the  pre- 
cipice on  which  they  stand,  and  be  thereby  reduced  into  the 
valley  of  humiliation  ;  where  alone  true  honour  and  right  exalta- 
tion are  known,  and  Avhere  they  might  experience  a  being 
washed  from  all  their  pollutions,  and  healed  of  all  their  wounds. 

We  attended  a  meeting  at  Byljerry  on  sixth  day,  and,  through 
the  Lord's  presiding  presence,  it  proved  a  day  of  signal  favour. 
The  doctrines  of  full  and  complete  redemption  from  sin  and  death 
were  clearly  opened,  and  truth  exalted  over  all  the  dark  tenets, 
and  carnal  reasonings  of  men,  which  lead  to  unbelief  and 
infidehty. 

On  seventh  day  we  returned  to  Abuigton,  where  we  had 
another  large  favoured  meeting,  wherein  many  things  were 
opened  in  a  plain  waj ,  tending  to  gather  the  minds  of  the  jieople 
out  of  the  spirit  of  the  world,  which  leads  to  strife  and  contention, 
from  whence  party  animosities  arise,  often  a  prelude  to  war  ;  and 
calling  their  attention  home  to  the  great  gospel  privilege,  the 
holy  unction  and  anointing  within  :  so  that  they  need  not  that 
any  man  teach  them,  but  as  the  same  anointing  teacheth ; 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


which,  as  they  come  to  believe  in  and  obey,  would  qualify  them 
to  judge  of  all  niiuistiy,  and  from  whence  it  had  its  rise  and 
spring ;  and  thereby  be  delivered  from  all  false  glosses  and  mix- 
tures in  religion,  and  become  established  in  that  which  never  fell, 
the  immoveable  rock  Christ  Jesus,  against  which  the  gates  of  hell 
will  never  be  able  to  prevail. 

On  first  day,  the  10th  of  5th  month,  we  attended  Horsham 
meeting,  and  in  the  afternoon,  the  meeting  at  North  Wales.  It 
was  a  day  of  high  favour,  tlie  Lord's  arm  was  graciously  made 
bare  for  our  helj) ;  and  the  meetings  were  very  large,  many  not 
of  our  society  attended.  The  gospel  was  freely  preached  among 
them,  in  the  clear  demonstration  of  the  spiiit.  They  were  truly 
hmnbling  seasons,  especially  tlie  former,  wherein  a  great  number 
were  nuicli  contrited,  and  wept  freely.  The  rocks  seemed  to 
melt  at  the  presence  of  the  mighty  God  of  Jacob,  whose  power 
was  prevalently  witnessed  in  that  large  assembly,  to  the  praise 
and  exaltation  of  his  great  and  glorious  name. 

We  attended  the  meeting  at  Plymouth  on  second  day.  Al- 
though there  was  an  evident  want,  affectingly  manifest,  of  that 
primitive  zeal  and  integrity  which  distinguished  our  worthy 
predecessors,  with  too  many  of  those,  w  ho  liU  up  their  places  in 
outward  profession  ;  yet  it  was  comforting  to  find,  that  the  Shep- 
herd of  Israel  was  still  graciously  pleased  to  continue  his  merci- 
ful visitations,  and  renew  his  gracious  calls  to  these,  to  retmn, 
and  renew  covenant  with  him.  This  was  the  substance  of  this 
day's  testimony  and  labour  ;  may  the  Master  of  assemblies  make 
it  effectual,  to  all  tliat  were  present  of  this  description,  is  my 
sincere  prayer.  On  third  day  we  were  at  Providence  meeting, 
which  was  small ;  nevertheless,  through  gracious  regard,  it 
proved  an  edifying,  heart-tendering  season.  The  stales  of  the 
people  were  opened  and  spoken  to,  in  the  authority  of  truth,  to 
their  great  humiliation ;  many  hearts  were  nuich  Ijroken  and 
reduced,  and  the  Lord's  power  exalted  over  all. 

After  this  meeting,  my  mind  was  turned  towards  the  quarterly 
meeting  of  Cain,  to  be  held  this  time  at  Sadsbury,  a  newly  estab- 
lished quarterly  meeting,  in  the  county  of  Chester.  Finding  it 
necessary  to  comply  with  the  motion,  believing  my  peace  con- 


94 


JOURNAL  OF 


sisted  iii  it,  we  set  out  immediately  after  dinner,  having  thirty 
miles,  or  upwards,  to  ride  to  it.    The  journey  proved  very  wea- 
risome to  my  infirm  body,  being  much  trouljled  at  this  time 
with  a  painful  complaint,  with  which  I  was  greatly  afflicted  dur- 
ing the  time  of  this  <|uarterly  meeting,  especially  in  the  forepart  of 
the  public  meeting,  preceding  the  meeting  for  discipline.    I  was 
ready  to  conclude  that  1  should  be  obliged  to  leave  the  meeting, 
my  distress  of  body  was  so  great ;  but  feeling  my  mind  drawn  to 
the  people,  there  being  a  large  congregation  present,  I  continued, 
and  way  opening,  I  was  enlarged  in  clear,  pertinent  doctrine. 
Truth  rose  into  dominion,  in  an  eminent  manner,  and  ran  over 
all  as  oil,  comforting  and  bieaking  many  hearts,  and  reducing, 
and  silencing  every  opj)osite  spirit.    A  very  precious  solemnity 
was  spread  over  the  meetingy  rejoicing  the  upright  in  heart, 
relieving  to  my  own  mind,  and  alleviating  my  bodily  affliction. 
These  aie  high  favours;  may  an  humbling  and  grateful  sense 
thereof  rest  continually  upon  thee,  O  my  soul,  and  mayest  thou 
never  forget  how  much  thou  owest  to  thy  Lord,  how  deep  and 
solemn  are  thy  obligations  to  the  God  of  thy  salvation ;  how 
liath  he  often  taken  thee  out  of  the  horrible  pit,  and  out  of  the 
miry  clay,  and  set  thee  upon  a  rock,  and  put  a  new  song  into 
thy  mouth,  even  praises,  high  praises  to  him. 

From  this  meeting  we  returned  to  Cain,  and  attended  their 
monthly  meeting,  held  the  sixth  of  the  week.  I  was  enabled  to 
labour  among  them  in  much  plainness,  both  in  the  meeting  for 
worship,  and  for  discipline  ;  and  left  them  with  a  peaceful  mind. 
The  three  following  days  we  attended  meetings  at  Robinson, 
Exeter,  and  Reading.  The  number  of  members  which  consti- 
tuted these  meetings  was  small,  but  a  considerable  number  of 
the  neighbouring  inhabitants  attended.  Ability  was  graciously 
afforded  to  preach  the  gospel  freely  in  each,  and  the  power 
attending  broke  and  tendered  many  hearts,  and  an  excellent 
savour  and  solemnity  was  felt  to  spread  over  the  meetings,  in  an 
eminent  manner  ;  for  which  I  was  made  humbly  thankfid  to  the 
bountiful  Author  of  all  our  blessings.  These  favours  were  more 
than  an  adequate  reward  for  all  my  toil  and  exercise  ;  although 
I  had  been,  for  some  days  past,  under  the  pressure  of  much  bodily 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


95 


infirmity,  accompanied  with  seasons  of  great  uneasiness  and  pain ; 
^  but  the  Lord's  power  was  over  all,  and  kept  my  mind  in  patience, 
and  sweet  peace  from  day  to  day  ;  blessed  for  ever,  be  his  right 
worthy  name. 

The  fourth  of  the  week,  and  the  20th  of  5th  month,  we 
attended  the  meeting  at  Maiden  Creek.  The  same  afternoon, 
and  the  next  day,  we  crossed  the  Blue  Mountains  to  Roaring 
Creek ;  and  the  day  after,  attended  a  meeting  there.  Both  of 
these  meetings  were  crowned  with  the  Lord's  presence,  and  were 
edifying  and  instructive  seasons.  The  morning  following  we 
rode  to  Catawissa,  and  attended  their  monthly  meeting ;  and  con- 
tinued there  until  after  their  first  day  meeting.  I  was  enabled, 
through  the  Lord's  good  presence  attending,  to  labour  among 
them,  both  in  the  meetmg  for  discipline,  and  those  for  worship, 
in  much  plainness ;  divers  matters  relative  to  the  weU-ordering 
of  the  affairs  of  truth  were  opened,  which  proved  instructive 
and  edifyuig. 

After  the  latter  meeting,  we  passed  on  that  afternoon  fifteen 
miles  to  Berwick,  crossing  the  river  Susquehannah  in  our  way. 
The  day  following,  the  2.5th  of  5th  month,  although  my  bodily 
indisposition  stiU  continued,  we  had  a  meeting  there,  among  the 
town's  people,  and  the  few  Friends  of  that  place.  It  was  a  com- 
fortable season,  edifying  and  strengthening  to  Friends ;  and 
confirming  to  a  number  who  were  looking  towards  us  with 
desires  for  finther  mfonnation.  After  this  meeting,  we  rode 
to  Fishing  Creek,  about  eighteen  miles  ;  and  the  day  following 
had  a  very  satisfactory  meeting  at  that  place.  Although  in  this 
journey,  for  a  considerable  time  past,  I  have  experienced  much 
bodily  infirmity  ;  yet  the  Lord,  in  his  abundant  mercy,  hath  been 
graciously  pleased  to  keep  my  mind  stayed  upon  him.  My  trust 
and  confidence  have  not  at  any  tune  failed,  not  even  when  I 
have  been  reduced  into  a  state  of  great  distress  and  suffering ; 
and  my  poor  soul  plunged  into  the  mighty  abyss  of  siurounding 
darkness,  and  sunk,  as  it  were,  to  the  bottom  of  the  mountains : 
for  as  I  patiently  abode  inider  those  trying  baptisms,  and  was 
made  willing  to  endure  my  portion  thereof,  my  spirit  was  raised 
out  of  this  horrible  pit  •,  wherein  I  had  been  a  partaker  with  the 


9& 


JOURNAL  OF 


suffering  seed  in  the  hearts  of  those,  who,  through  supineness, 
ease,  forgetfulness,  unbelief  and  a  worldly  spirit,  had  become 
like  a  bottomless  abyss  of  cornjption,  darkness  and  errour :  and 
I  was  enabled,  through  a  real  feeling  of  tlieir  deplorable  states, 
to  administer  to  their  several  wants,  and  open  to  them  theu"  con- 
dition. Many  were  reached  in  heart,  and  convinced  of  the  errour 
of  their  ways,  and  were  led  to  give  God  the  glory  of  his  own 
work.  And,  O,  saith  my  ?ioul,  may  all  those  who  are  sent  out 
on  this  solemn  embassy  and  most  important  service,  dwell  low 
in  their  minds,  and  keep  a  single  eye  to  the  Lord's  honour,  that 
so  self  may  be  thoroughly  abased  :  othei  wise,  there  is  great  dan- 
ger, in  those  trying  and  most  afflictive  dispensations,  of  the  mind 
getting  into  a  state  of  impatience,  and  therein  be  led  to  judge  the 
people  of  hardness,  and  a  spirit  of  opposition.  This  will  not  fail, 
if  given  way  to,  of  centering  the  minds  of  such,  either  into  a  state 
of  silent  sadness  and  discouragement,  that,  lilce  the  disciples 
formerly,  they  will  be  for  sending  the  people  away  fasting,  and 
empty  ;  or  else  raise  m  them  a  hot  fiery  zeal,  in  which  tliey  will 
throw  out  some  hard  censures,  or  harsh  reproof,  untempered  with 
that  charity,  requisite  and  necessary  always  to  attend  every 
gospel  communication  :  for  want  of  which,  both  speaker  and 
hearers  will  be  wounded,  much  hurt  done,  and  many  opportu- 
nities, I  beheve,  have  been  entirely  lost  by  these  means,  which 
might  have  been  crowned  with  the  Lord's  presence,  and  his  truth 
exalted.  Nay  I  have  no  doubt,  but  some  meetings  have  been 
held  to  the  dishonour  of  truth,  and  wounding  many  tender 
minds.  And  I  have  sometimes  been  afraid,  that  some,  who 
are  rightly  called,  and  sent  on  this  greatest  of  errands,  have  so  far 
missed  their  way,  while  luider  some  of  those  excruciating  bap- 
tisms, which  they  have  been  led  into,  in  order  to  qualify  them 
rightly  to  administer  to  the  states  of  the  people,  as  to  suffer  an 
impatient  spirit  to  rise  up  ;  and  have  thus  brought  a  gloom  of 
darkness  over  their  minds,  which  has  continued  with  them  from 
day  to  day,  greatly  to  their  distress.  Although  they  have  con- 
tinued to  attend  meetings,  they  have  been  so  shut  up  in  total 
darkness,  as  not  to  see  any  way  of  relief,  except  in  uttering  their 
complaints,  similar  to  the  murmur ings  of  Israel  in  the  wilder- 


1 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


ness.  Wliere  T  have  found  such^hings  left  on  record,  I  have 
thought  tliey  ahvays  tended  to  discouragement  and  dismay, 
when  coming  from  the  leaders  of  the  people.  Although  the 
Lord  was  graciously  pleased  to  condescend  to  the  weakness  of 
Israel,  and  deliver  them  out  of  the  distress  which  their  impa- 
tience had  hrought  upon  them  ;  yet  he  very  clearly  manifested 
his  displeasure  thereat.  And  if  only  one  iusfance  of  impatience 
and  improper  zeal  in  Moses  drew  upon  him  such  severe  censure, 
as  we  read  it  did,  how  ought  all  those,  w  ho  are  now  called  forth 
as  leaders  of  the  people,  to  stand  always  on  their  guard  against 
every  motion  of  impatience,  and  impure  zeal,  lest  they  also  fall 
under  the  displeasure  of  the  Captain  of  their  salvation. 

Although,  after  those  gloomy  dispensations,  we  may  be  again 
favoured,  in  renewed  mercy,  and  helped  out  of  this  horrible  pit, 
and  witness  the  liftmg  up  of  the  light  of  t  he  Lord's  glorious  coun- 
tenance upon  us ;  yet  this  is  no  proof  of  the  rectitude  of  our 
conduct,  any  more  than  his  showing  mercy  to  Israel,  after  their 
launnurings,  was  a  justification  thereof.  Yet  I  have  been  afiaid, 
that  some  have  considered  those  renewed  favours,  as  a  conse- 
quence of  their  own  sufferings ;  which,  to  me,  carries  too  much 
of  selfishness,  and  savours  of  a  desire  of  clothing  ourselves  with 
the  Lord's  jewels,  instead  of  rendering  to  him,  with  heart-felt 
gratitude,  the  glory  of  all  his  works ;  and  receiving  this  act  of 
unmerited  redemption  from  the  gloomj  our  own  impatience,  and 
the  want  of  a  thorough  reduction  of  self,  had  cast  us  into,  as 
flowing  purely  from  his  forbearing  mercy,  condescending  good- 
ness and  free  love. 

•  After  the  aforesaid  meeting,  we  rode  to  Muncy,  and  lodged 
with  our  kind  friend  William  Ellis.  The  next  day,  the  fourth 
of  the  week,  and  the  27lh  of  5th  month,  their  meeting  was  held; 
and  notice  being  spread  that  we  were  there,  it  was  large.  Al- 
though I  had  to  sit  some  time  in  the  forepart  of  the  meeting,  in 
much  weakness  and  depression,  both  of  body  and  mind  ;  yet  as 
I  abode  in  patience  and  resignation  to  my  allotment,  willing  to  be 
any  thing,  or  nothing,  and  to  do,  or  to  suffer,  according  to  the 
Master's  will ;  after  a  time  of  solemn  waiting,  a  little  opening 
presented,  attended  with  some  glimmering  of  light  ;  and  as  my 

13 


98 


JOURNAL  OF 


eye  was  kept  steadily  to  it,  I  felt  a  necessity  to  stand  up ;  and  aa 
I  proceeded  in  guarded  care,  it  opened  to  a  large  field  of  doctrine, 
suitably  adapted,  1  .believe,  to  the  states  of  those  present.  A  very 
comfortable  solemnity  was  felt  to  spread  over  the  meeting,  re- 
joicing the  hearts  of  the  faithful. 

We  rested  for  a  day  or  two  after  this  meeting,  with  our  afore- 
said friend,  in  order  to  recruit,  feeling  myself  very  unwell  with  a 
cold,  which  had  attended  me  for  some  time  ;  and  being  much 
worn  down  by  constant  traveUing  under  such  bodily  infirmities. 
The  30th  of  the  month,  and  seventh  day  of  the  week,  we  attended 
a  meeting  at  a  place  called  Pine  Grove ;  a  small  meeting  of 
Friends  being  held  there.  .  On  first  day  we  had  a  large  meeting, 
by  appointment,  at  a  town  called  Williamsport,  which  was  held 
in  their  court-house  ;  but  the  room  was  not  large  enough  to  con- 
tain the  people,  and  although  very  much  crowded,  and  many 
standing,  they  behaved  soberly,  and  a  blessed  meeting  we  had. 
I  was  led  forth  among  them,  in  a  large  affecting  testimony, 
wherein  the  truths  of  the  gospel  were  clearly  opened  and  explained 
to  the  weakest  capacities,  and  the  Lord's  power  was  in  dominion, 
in  a  very  eminent  manner.  It  was  a  season  thankfully  to  be 
remembered,  and  greatly  refresliing  to  my  drooping  spirit,  making 
up  every  deficiency  for  the  want  of  bodUy  health.  I  could  with 
heart-felt  gratitude  cheerfully  acknowledge,  it  was  the  Lord's 
doing. 

After  this  meeting  we  set  forward  on  our  journey  towards 
Redstone,  having  meetings  in  our  way,  at  Job  Packers,  Miles- 
burgh,  Half-moon  Valley,  and  Downing's  Creek.  Then  we 
passed  directly  over  the  Alleghany  mountains,  into  the  compass 
of  Redstone  quarterly  meeting.  On  fourth  day,  the  10th  of  6th 
month,  we  attended  a  meeting  at  Sewickly,  on  the  western  side 
of  the  mountains,  a  branch  of  Redstone  monthly  meeting.  After 
this,  we  were  at  Providence  on  fifth  day.  Center  on  sixth,  and 
Fallowfield  on  seventh  day.  Although  these  were  seasons  of 
close  exercise,  accompanied  with  some  painful  labour,  and  deep 
baptisms,  in  suffering  with  the  seed  ;  yet  my  mind  was  favoured 
in  the  openings  of  gospel  hght,  so  to  discharge  myself  in  those 
meetings,  as  to  leave  them  with  sohd  peace  of  mind,    I  believe 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


99 


they  were  seasons  of  renewed  visitation  to .  many  who  attended, 
that  will  not  soon  be  forgotten  by  them. 

On  first  day  we  attended  the  meeting  at  Pilcc  Run,  and  the 
two  following  days  were  at  Westland,  and  Redstone  meetings. 
My  mind  was  under  a  very  great  pressure  of  distress,  in  passing 
along  through  those  six  last  mentioned  meetings  ;  both  from  an 
inward  sense,  and  an  outward  discovery,  of  great  weakness  pre- 
vailing among  them  ;  occasioned  by  an  im warrantable  credulity, 
and  letting  out  their  minds  to  listen  to,  and  believe  in,  the  vul- 
gar, and  shamefully  ridiculous  notion  of  witchcraft.  Some  of 
their  leading  members  openly  acknowledged,  they  believed  that  a 
family  of  their  near  kindred,  several  of  whom  were  troubled  with 
a  kind  of  periodical  fits,  were  actually  thus  affected  by  one  of 
their  neighboius.  My  spirit  Avas  exceedingly  grieved  by  their 
asserting  their  belief  in  those  abominable  reports,  and  by  discover- 
ing how  their  minds  were  led  away  thereby  ;  and  my  grief  was 
also  much  increased  by  their  confidence  in  a  certain  boy  in  the 
neighbourhood,  who  pretended  to  teU  secrets,  saying,  (hat  he  could 
see  persons  whom  any  should  inquire  after,  although  in  a  very 
distant  part  of  the  world,  and  Avould  tell  those  who  came  to  see 
him,  notwithstanding  they  lived  on  the  other  side  of  the  Atlantic, 
that  he  could  see  the  very  place  of  their  residence,  and  of  what 
materials  their  houses  were  made,  as  if  he  was  present  at  the  place; 
and  would  pretend  to  tell  the  conditions  and  dispositions  of  per- 
sons, whom  he  had  never  before  seen,  and  what  they  were  guilty 
of,  as  to  their  private  sins,  and  who  was  a  witch,  and  who  not ;  and 
he  had  so  far  got  the  ascendency  in  the  minds  of  those  who  had 
given  way  to  the  absurd  notion  of  witchcraft,  that  whatever  he 
said,  in  these  respects,  obtained  their  implicit  belief  And  if  he 
impeached  the  most  unblemished  character  of  being  a  watch,  or 
charged  such  with  being  guilty  of  any  baneftd  sin,  they  were 
ready  to  beheve  it ;  by  which  means  great  hurt  was  done.  I 
was  exceedingly  burthened  therewith,  and  had  conversation  with 
divers  on  the  subject ;  but  they  were  so  carried  away  with  these 
notions,  that  reasoning  seemed  to  have  no  weight  with  them. 
While  any  man  or  woman  can  give  way  to  beheve  in  such 
things,  and  go  to  dark,  undisciplined,  and  irreligious  men,  to  be 


100 


JOURNAL  OP 


healed  of  those  infirmities,  which  they  are  told  are  the  effect  of 
witchcraft,  it  is  certainly  denying  the  God  that  made  them,  who 
only  hath  all  power  iu  heaven  and  in  earth,  and  can  wound  and 
heal,  kill  and  make  alive  at  his  pleasure.  God  forbid,  saith  my 
soul,  that  any,  professing  the  name  of  a  Friend,  should  ever  thus 
desert  the  God  of  his  salvation  ;  for  if  he  doth,  it  Avill  no  doubt 
tend  to  his  confusion,  and  in  which  state,  he  will  be  given  over 
to  strange  delusions,  even  to  believe  a  lie  ;  a  most  wretched  state 
for  any  poor  soul  to  be  in.  I  was  enabled,  through  condescend- 
ing goodness,  to  clear  my  mind  among  them,  by  divers  large  full 
testimonies  to  the  truth,  and  the  excellency  of  its  power,  to  deliver 
fiom  every  thing  that  tends  to  hurt  or  defile. 

I  left  them  with  peace  of  mind,  and  proceeded  to  Connelstown, 
where  we  had  a  very  comfortable  heart-tendering  season,  among 
a  few  Friends,  and  t  he  town's  people.  Next  we  attended  Sandy 
Hill  meeting  ;  and  the  day  following  were  at  Sandy  Creek 
Glades,  both  comfortable  seasons.  These  closed  our  visit  to 
Redstone  quarterly  meeting.  We  then  returned  across  the  Alle- 
ghany moimtains,  with  a  view  to  attend  the  meetings  belonging 
to  Hopewell,  in  the  compass  of  Fairfax  Quarterly  meeting.  We 
reached  Bear  Garden  particvilar  meeting  on  first  day,  having 
rode  diligently  the  day  before,  for  that  purpose ;  not  having 
much  prospect  thereof  when  we  left  Sandy  Creek.  The  dis- 
tance between  the  two  places  was  about  ninety-two  miles,  and 
the  way  very  mountainous,  and  having  had  but  little  more  than 
a  day  and  a  half  to  ride  it.  Tliis  meeting,  in  the  forepart,  was 
heavy,  but  ended  well ;  and  we  left  them  with  solid  satisfaction, 
and  passed  on  to  Back  Creek  meeting  that  afternoon  ;  held  near 
a  small  town,  or  village,  called  Penn's  Town.  Manjr  of  the 
neighbouring  people  came  in,  so  that  the  meeting  was  pretty 
large,  and  I  had  considerable  to  communicate  among  them,  but 
without  obtaining  much  relief  of  mind. 

In  the  course  of  this  Aveek  we  attended  meetings  at  the  Ridge, 
Centre,  Crooked  Rim,  Mount  Pleasant,  Hopewell,  and  Lower 
Ridge  ;  and  on  the  first  and  second  days,  of  the  following  week, 
we  were  at  Middle  Creek,  and  Berkly  meetings.  These  were, 
most  of  them,  favoured  seasons,  particularly  that  at  Middle 


ELI  AS  HICKS. 


101 


Creek,  wherein  the  Lord's  presence  was  powerfully  manifest. 
Truth  rose  into  great  dominion,  preciously  uniting  and  edifying 
the  honest-hearted,  and  breaking  down  all  opposition,  afl'ectuig 
and  mollifying  the  hearts  of,  almost,  the  whole  assembly.  It  was 
indeed  a  precious  solemnity,  not  soon  to  be  forgotten,  but  to  be 
held  in  grateful  remembrance. 

After  those  meetings,  we  turned  our  faces  homewards,  attend- 
ing meetings  in  our  way,  at  Little  York,  Columbia,  Pottstown, 
and  the  Great  Swamp,  ahas  Rithland  ;  these  were  through 
divine  favour,  instructive  seasons.  The  next  meeting  was  at 
Plumbstead,  in  the  compass  of  Buck's  quarterly  meeting,  which 
we  attended  on  third  day,  the  7th  of  7tli  month  :  and  on  the 
two  following  days,  we  were  at  Buckingham,  and  Wright's 
TowTi  meetings.  My  mind,  in  those  meetings,  was  brought 
under  a  close  exercise,  from  a  prospect  of  Friends  being  too  much 
leavened  into  the  spirit  of  the  world,  its  customs  and  maxuns  ; 
by  which,  many  appeared  to  be  greatly  wounded,  and  had  be- 
come as  dwarfs  in  our  Israel.  And  I  believe,  nothing  contributed 
more  to  this,  than  their  becoming  parties  in  the  civil  government, 
and  taking  offices  therein  ;  for  here,  the  spirit  of  contention  gets 
in,  and  a  striving  to  be  uppermost,  and  fill  the  principal  seats  : 
then  party  anunosities  take  place,  from  whence  are  derived  envy 
and  jealousy,  one  against  another  ;  and  then  reviling,  and 
neighbours  speaking  evil  of  each  other ;  hence  wars  and  fight- 
ings arise,  as  from  their  natural  ground.  As  any  give  way  to 
these  things,  it  leavens  their  minds  into  the  spirit  of  (he  world, 
which  is  a  spirit  of  darkness,  that  blinds  the  understandhig  and 
hardens  tlie  heart,  and  draws  into  many  hurtful  and  pernicious 
practices,  such  as  dealing  in  ardent  spirits,  drinking  strong  drink, 
and  handing  it  out  in  their  fields  to  their  workmen,  to  stimu- 
late them  to  an  excess  oflabour;  hence  an  excess  of  drinking  strong 
drink  is  gradually  introduced  among  the  poor  labourers,  by  means 
of  which  many  families  are  ruined. 

My  spirit  was  deeply  exercised  on  those  accounts,  but  as  I 
patiently  endured  the  baptisms  I  had  to  go  through,  and  submit- 
ted to  communicate  what  appeared  clearly  to  open  ;  1  was  en- 
larged in  setting  forth  the  dangerous  and  hurtfiU  tendency  of 


102 


JOURNAL  OF 


such  conduct,  and  its  great  inconsistency  with  our  holy  profession, 
and  to  exhort  Friends  to  a  more  fieqiient  recurrence  to  the  first 
principle  of  our  profession,  the  light  within  ;  whereby  deliverance 
and  preservation  could  only  be  experienced.  The  Lord  was 
graciously  Avith  us  in  those  meetings,  and  the  faithful  were  en- 
couraged and  edified,  and  many  hearts  greatly  tendered,  under 
a  sense  of  the  Lord's  mercy  and  goodness  extended  to  us  in  these 
seasons. 

On  sixtli  day  we  attended  a  meeting  at  Makefield,  and  in  the 
afternoon,  had  a  large  meeting  at  Newtown.  It  was  held  in 
their  court-hou.-ie,  and  mostly  composed  of  those  not  professing 
with  us.  I  felt  in  this  meeting,  the  pressure  and  prevalence  of  a 
spirit  of  darkness  and  unbelief ;  and  was  led  to  open  the  ground 
thereof,  and  to  show  its  inconsistency  with  the  self-evident  expe- 
rience of  every  rational  mind.  For  although  men  in  tlie  igno- 
rance and  darkness  of  their  own  hearts,  may  strive  to  settle  them- 
selves in  unl)elief,  in  order  to  live  quietly  in  the  gratification  of 
their  own  wills  and  creaturely  appetites,  without  any  controul  ; 
yet,  they  never  can  fully  come  to  this  ;  for  that  just  witness, 
placed  in  every  bosom  as  a  reprover  for  sin,  will  continue  to  dis- 
turb all  those  false  rests,  and  shake  every  heaven  of  man's 
making.  For  although  men,  through  the  hardness  of  their 
hearts,  may  not  submit  to  the  guidance  of  this  just  principle,  so 
as  to  have  a  saving  belief  therein  ;  yet  they  will  tliereby  be 
compelled  into  a  belief,  similar  to  that  of  the  devils,  and  which 
they  will  never  be  able  fully  to  divest  themselves  of  by  aU  their 
carnal  reasonings  and  fleshly  wisdom  ;  but  it  will  continue,  at 
times,  to  make  them  fear  and  tremble,  and  by  its  tremendous 
power  will  cause  the  very  top  of  their  Sinai  to  shake,  and  blast 
all  their  false  hopes.  F^or  it  is  the  determinate  counsel  of  uner- 
ring wisdom,  that  the  hope  of  the  hypocrite  shall  perish  :  there- 
fore let  all  prize  the  day  of  their  visitation,  while  the  Lord  is 
graciously  striving  with  them,  by  the  clear,  self-evident  touches 
of  his  light  in  their  hearts  ;  in  order  that  the  wicked  may  tmn 
from  his  wicked  way,  and  the  unrighteous  from  his  unrighteous 
thoughts,  and  turn  unto  tlie  liord  who  \\  ill  ha\'e  mercy  upon 
him.  and  unto  our  God,  who  wiU  abundantly  pardon. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


103 


The  meeting  at  Makefield  was  likewise  a  precious  opportunity. 
The  Lord  being  mightily  with  us  m  our  passing  along,  from 
season  to  season,  to  our  hujnbling  admiration,  furnishing  with 
strength  for  every  service  ;  so  that  we  uideed  found  him  to  be 
strength  in  weakness,  and  riches  in  poverty.  For  I  never  felt 
greater  weakness  and  nothingness,  as  to  self,  than  in  this  jour- 
ney ;  and  could  truly  say,  that  our  sufficiency  was  not  of  our- 
selves, but  of  God  ;  and  that  the  Lord  was  our  strength  from 
day  to  day,  who  is  over  all,  blessed  for  ever. 

The  three  following  days  we  attended  meetings  at  Middle- 
tow^n,  Bristol,  and  the  Falls.  1  was  led  forth  in  these  meetings  to 
show  wherein  real  Christianity  consists  ;  and  although  the  peo- 
ple of  Christendom  had  the  name  of  Christians,  yet,  so  long  as 
they  lived  in  the  gratification  of  then-  own  wills  and  carnal  lusts, 
from  whence  discord,  animosities,  envyings,  strife  and  every  evil 
work  originated,  they  were  only  heathens  in  disguise.  For 
tme  Christianity  is  nothing  else  than  a  real  and  complete  mortifi- 
cation of  our  own  wills,  and  a  full  and  tiual  annihilation  of  all 
self-exaltation :  and  the  contrary  is  the  true  antichrist,  that 
sitteth  in  the  seat  of  God,  who  opposeth  and  exalteth  himself 
above  all  that  is  called  God,  or  that  is  worsliipped.  Therefore, 
none  are  any  further  Christians,  than  as  they  come  to  expe- 
rience the  self-denial,  meekness,  humility  and  gentleness  of 
Christ,  ruhiig  and  reigning  in  them,  so  as  to  become  their  real 
life ;  and  in,  and  by  which,  they  become  pailakers  of  the  di\ine 
nature,  and  know  the  life  of  God  raised  up  in  the  immortal 
soul ;  which  is  the  new  birth,  or  Christ  formed  in  us,  and 
without  which,  as  our  Lord  told  Nicodemus,  no  man  can  see  the 
kingdom  of  God. 

After  these  meetings  we  crossed  the  river  Delaware  into  New 
Jersey,  attending  meetings  on  our  way,  at  Kingwood,  Hardwick, 
Mendham,  and  one  near  PauUngskiln.  From  thence  we  passed 
to  Cornwall,  in  the  state  of  New- York.  We  reached  there 
seventh  day  evening,  the  18th  of  7th  month,  and  the  next  day 
were  at  their  first  day  meeting.  I  was  much  worn  down  by 
constant  travelling  and  hard  laboiu",  and  felt  much  fatigue  when 
we  came  here ;  and  m  going  to  this  meeting,  I  felt  a  desire  to 


104 


JOURNAL  OF 


rise  in  my  mind,  that  I  might  have  a  good  silent  nleeting.  The 
prayer  of  my  spirit  was  answered,  for  I  had  not  sat  long  before  a 
perfect,  sweet  calm  ensued,  wherein  niy  whole  man  was  swal- 
lowed up  in  divine  seraphic  enjoyment ;  so  that  not  only  my 
mind,  but  also  my  wearied  body  forgot  all  its  toil ;  and  my  soul 
ivas  so  inflamed  with  gratitude,  to  tlie  all-bountiful  Author  of  all 
our  rich  mercies  and  blessings,  that  praises  and  thanksgiving 
ascended  as  incense  from  the  altar  of  my  heart  to  his  great  and 
glorious  name,  who  remains  to  be  God  over  all,  blessed  for  ever, 
world  without  end.  Amen. 

In  the  course  of  this  week  we  attended  meetings  at  Newburgh 
Valley,  the  Paltz,  Marlborough,  and  on  fifth  day  were  at  Corn 
wall  montldy  meeting.  The  meeting  for  worship  which  pre- 
ceded the  business,  was  large.  I  was  led  among  them  in  a  line  of 
close  searching  laboiu  ,  which,  for  some  time,  seemed  to  have  but 
httle  entrance  among  them ;  mankind  being  too  generally  dis- 
posed, while  in  a  state  of  unsoundness,  to  shut  themselves  against 
that,  which  they  know,  if  they  are  open  to  receive,  would  find  out 
all  their  secret  lurking  places,  where  self-love  and  self-will  lie 
shrouded  under  a  mask  of  doing  good.,  while  it  is  gratified  in 
the  full  enjoyment  of  aU  its  beloveds,  and  with  whom  it  is  daily 
committing  adidtery  and  fornication :  but  as  I  continued  to  per- 
severe in  faithfulness  to  the  opening,  although  the  prospect  for  a 
time  seemed  discouraging,  truth  began  to  make  way  by  its  own 
power,  and  gradually  spread  over  the  meeting,  breaking  down 
all  opposition,  and  tendering  and  moUifying  many  hearts.  The 
meeting  for  disciphne  appeared  to  be  pretty  well  conducted,  there 
being,  I  believe,  a  remnant  honestly  engaged  for  the  promotion 
of  the  cause  of  truth  ;  and  these  the  Lord  delights  to  favour,  and 
furnish  with  strength  to  carry  on  his  own  work  of  truth  and 
righteousness  in  the  earth  ;  and  he  will  continue  to  reward  these 
with  the  real  enjoyment  of  his  life-giving  presence  ;  whOe  those 
who  sit  as  mere  idle  spectators,  wiU  be  sent  empty  away. 

On  sixth  day  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  the  house  of 
our  friend  Thomas  Jones  at  Walkiln ;  on  seventh  day,  one  at 
Goshen,  and  on  first  day,  we  wefe  at  Smith's  Clove.  All  satis- 
factory seasons,  especially  the  last,  wherein  truth  was  powerfiilly 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


105 


manifest,  tendering  the  hearts  of  the  people  in  a  remarkable 
manner ;  so  that  a  very  precious  solemnity  was  witnessed  to 
spread  over  the  meeting.  After  these  meetings  we  timied  home 
wards,  attending  meetings  in  our  way  at  Kakiat,  Tappan  and 
New- York.  We  reached  home  on  fourth  day  evening,  the  29th 
of  7th  month.  I  found  my  family  in  usual  health,  which,  to- 
gether with  an  endeared  and  cordial  reception  in  the  feelings 
of  mut  ual  love,  and  tlowings  of  that  peace  of  mind  attendant  on 
a  faithful  discharge  of  manifested  duty,  filled  my  heart  with 
thankful  acknowledgments  to  the  great  and  bountiful  Author 
of  every  blessing. 

I  was  from  home  in  this  journey  three  months  and  eighteen 
days,  and  travelled  about  sixteen  himdred  and  thirty  miles. 


106 


JOURNAL  OF 


CHAPTER  V. 

Visit  to  Friends  in  Canada,  and  some  of  the  northom  parts  of  the  yearly  meet- 
ing of  New- York,  1803. — Visit  on  Long  Island,  Staten  Island,  and  New-York, 
1806. — Visit  to  Purchase,  Nine  Partners,  and  Stanford,  and  some  adjacent 
parts,  1806. — Visit  to  Nine  Partners,  1807.— Visit  to  Purchase,  Nine  Partners, 
and  Stanford,  1808. — Visit  to  tlie  subordinate  meetings,  1808. — Visit  to  Pur- 
chase, 1809.— Visits  on  Long  Island,  1812  and  1813  — Visit  to  Purchase  in 
1813. 

In  the  fall  of  the  year  1803,  I  performed  a  visit  to  Friends  of 
Upper  Canada,  and  some  other  of  the  northwestern  parts  of  our 
yearly  meeting.  Daniel  Titus  was  my  companion  in  this  jour- 
ney. We  left,  homo  the  20th  of  9th  month,  and  proceeded 
directly  to  Canada,  in  company  with  two  other  Friends,  who, 
with  us,  were  appointed  to  attend  the  monthly  meeting  of  Adol- 
phustown  on  a  particular  concern  relative  to  that  meeting.  We 
were  at  but  three  meetings  in  om-  way  thither,  two  at  Hudson 
on  first  day,  and  one  at  Black  River.  We  got  well  to  Adol- 
phustown  on  third  day  evening,  the  3d  of  10th  month,  having 
rode  about  four  hundred  and  ten  ntiiles,  and  crossed  the  great 
river  St.  Lawrence,  which  appeafed  to  be  a  dangerous  passage. 
We  crossed  its  two  branches,  an  island  lying  in  the  middle. 
Each  branch  was  nearly  five  miles  over.  We  passed  the  latter 
in  the  middle  of  the  night,  by  the  light  of  the  moon,  in  two  small 
flat-bottomed  boats,  one  of  them  so  small  as  to  carry  only  one 
horse.  This  latter  passage  lay  open  to  Lake  Ontario,  and  the 
wind  being  Irom  that  quarter,  caused  the  swell  frequently  to 
wash  into  our  boats,  so  that  we  had  considerable  labour  to  throw 
out  the  water  as  fast  as  it  came  in  ;  but  my  confidence  was  in 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


107 


Him,  who  hath  the  winds  and  the  waves  at  his  command.  This 
kept  out  fear,  and  we  got  safe  over  al)out  one  o'clock  in  the 
morning. 

On  fourth  day  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Adolphustown, 
as  it  came  in  course,  which  proved  an  instructive  favoured  sea- 
son. On  fifth  day  we  rode  to  Green  Point,  in  the  township  of 
Sophiasburgh,  to  the  house  of  our  friend  Daniel  Way  ;  and  had 
an  appointed  meeting  there  that  afternoon,  at  the  third  hoiu".  In 
this  meeting  I  was  favomed  ;  and  by  tlie  prevalence  of  the  power 
of  truth,  attending  the  communication,  many  minds  were  much 
Iwwed,  and  their  hearts  tendered  by  its  secret  mollifying  influ- 
ence. Our  next  appointment  was  in  the  neighbourhood  of  our 
friend  Robert  Hubbs,  on  seventh  day,  composed  mostly  of  people 
not  of  our  society,  which  Avas  a  comfortable,  edifying  season. 
After  this  we  proceeded  to  the  township  of  Hallowell,  to  the 
house  of  our  friend  Thomas  Boorman  near  West  Lalce  ;  and  on 
first  day  attended  Friends'  meeting  there.  On  second  day,  we 
had  an  opportunity  with  the  people  at  tlie  east  end  of  the  lake, 
which  was  held  at  the  house  of  a  professor  among  the  Method- 
ists. These  two  last  meetings  were  eminently  favoured  ;  truth 
rose  into  dominion,  and  ran  as  oil  over  all  opposition,  to  the 
instruction  and  comfort  of  many  minds  ;  and  the  Lord  was 
praised  for  his  goodness,  and  for  his  merciful,  loving  kindness  to 
the  children  of  men.  We  returned  that  evening  to  the  west  end 
of  said  lake,  to  the  house  of  our  friend  Jacob  Cronk,  and  lodged. 

On  third  day  the  11th  of  10th  month,  we  retinned  to  the 
house  of  Cornelius  Blount,  where  the  meeting  for  Friends  of 
West  Lake  was  held.  It  was  the  time  of  their  preparative  meet- 
ing, and  many  of  the  neighbouring  inhabitants  came  in,  and 
sat  with  Friends,  during  the  time  of  worship ;  the  forepart  of 
which,  was  rather  low  and  depressing  ;  but  as  patience  was 
abode  in,  and  right  attention  given  to  a  small  opening  which 
presented,  and  as  I  moved  therein  with  care,  tiuth  gradually  rose 
into  dominion,  powerfully  breaking  down  all  that  stood  in  its 
way.  Many  hearts  were  comforted  and  refreshed,  and  a  general 
solemnity  spread  over  the  meeting,  so  that  we  could  truly  say, 
hitherto  hath  the  Lord  helped  us. 


108  JOURNAL  OF 

After  tlie  preparative  meeting-  was  over,  which  was  held  in  an 
orderly  manner,  we  retvnncd  that  evening  to  the  house  of  our 
friend  John  Borland,  in  Adolphustown,  he  having  kindly  ac- 
companied us  since  we  left  that  place.    On  fourth  day  we 
attended  the  preparative  meeting  there.    The  meeting  for  wor- 
ship was  large,  many  of  those  who  were  not  members  came  in, 
and  manifested  great  willingness  to  hear  the  truths  of  the  gospel 
declared  ;  yet  too  many  a|)peared  careless  and  unconcerned,  with 
regard  to  the  practical  part,  so  that  in  them  was  fulfilled  the  say- 
ing of  the  apostle  :  "  For  if  any  be  a  hearer  of  the  word,  and  not 
a  doer,  he  is  like  mito  a  man  beholding  his  natural  face  in  a 
glass :  for  he  beholdetli  himself  and  goeth  his  way,  and  straight- 
way forgetteth  what  manner  of  man  he  was."    And  this,  it  is 
to  be  feared,  is  too  much  the  case  with  many  amongst  us,  as  a 
people,  who  are  pleasing  themselves  with  hearing  the  tmth  de- 
clared, and  rejoice  in  the  privilege  of  sitting  under  a  free,  living, 
gospel  ministry,  through  the  lalsour  and  exercise  of  the  faithful ; 
but  suffer  the  cmnbering  cares  and  pleasures  of  this  life,  so  to 
divert  them  from  a  right  improvement  of  their  own  gifts,  that 
they,  in  a  religious  sense,  may  justly  be  compared  to  idle  drones, 
who  live  on  the  labour  of  the  industrious  bee,  and  are  contenting 
themselves  in  a  situation  like  the  foolish  vugins,  who,  although 
they  have  lamps,  j^et,  are  without  oil  in  their  v^essels  ;  but  alas, 
what  will  these  do,  when  the  awful  midnight  cry  is  heard, "  behold 
the  bridegroom  cometh then  fear  and  dismay,  with  an  utter 
exclusion  from  the  marriage  chamber,  will  be  the  woful  doom  of 
all  careless,  and  lifeless  professors.    O  that  all  might  lay  these 
things  to  heart,  and  endeavour,  in  awful  fear,  to  have  their  day's 
work  done  in  the  day  time  ;  for  tehold  the  night  cometh,  wherein 
none  can  work. 

On  sixth  day  we  attended  Friends'  preparative  meeting  at 
Kingston ;  and  on  seventh  day,  we  had  a  meeting  in  the  town 
of  Kingston,  in  the  court-house,  the  first  Friends'  meeting  ever 
held  m  that  place.  The  people  appeared  much  imacquainted 
with  the  order  of  our  meetings,  and  some  of  the  principal  men 
seemed  at  a  loss  how  to  behave  themselves  in  the  time  of  silence ; 
but  during  the  communication,  they  were  generally  quiet  and 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


109 


solemn,  and  truth  rose  into  victory,  furnishing  doctrine,  clothed 
willi  divine  power,  and  carrying  conviction  to  the  minds  of  most 
present. 

The  next  day,  the  first  of  the  week,  we  again  attended  Friends' 
meeting  held  at  the  house  of  the  ^^'idow  Brewer  ;  they  not  having 
any  meeting-house  in  this  place.  In  the  afternoon  we  had  an 
appointed  meeting  in  the  west  part  of  this  township,  on  the  bay, 
which  was  held  at  the  house  of  John  Event,  a  man  not  in  strict 
profession  with  any  religious  society."  These  were  both  seasons 
of  heavenly  refieshment ;  the  life  ran  as  oil  over  all ;  many 
hearts  were  much  broken  and  contrited,  under  the  precious  mol- 
hfymg  influence  thereof ;  praised  and  magnified  for  ever,  be  the 
name  of  the  Lord,  for  his  mercy  and  lo\ing  khidness  to  the 
children  of  men. 

The  17th  we  returned  towards  Adolphustown,  and  attended 
a  meeting  appointed  at  an  inn  on  om*  way,  in  the  towoi  of  Ear- 
nest. This  also  proved,  through  the  condescending  mercy  and 
goodness  of  the  Lord  oiu  gracious  helper,  a  blessed  season  ;  and 
through  the  efficacious  power  attending  the  word  preached,  many 
hearts  were  pierced,  and  the  whole  assembly  solemnized.  We 
parted  from  each  other  with  thankful  hearts,  and  rode  to  Adol- 
phustown, and  lodged  with  our  friend  Daniel  Haight.  The  day 
following  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  his  house,  for  the 
neighbouring  inhabitants,  who  were,  many  of  them,  professors 
among  the  Methodists.  This,  through  divine  gootlness,  was  to 
me  a  season  of  great  refreshment,  and  the  assembly  were  gene- 
rally broken  and  contrited  by  the  convicting  power  of  divine 
love,  which  was  mercifidly  vouchsafed  to  us  at  this  season. 

We  then  proceeded  again  to  our'fiiend  John  Borland's,  and 
rested  the  next  day,  as  I  w^as  somewhat  unwell,  and  considerably 
wearied  by  such  constant  traveUing. 

On  fifth  day,  the  20th  of  the  month,  we  attended  P\iends' 
monthly  meeting  for  the  lower  part  of  the  Province  of  Upper 
Canada,  held  at  Adolphustown.  This  closed  our  visit  in  these 
parts ;  and  we  took  leave  of  our  friends  in  nuich  brotherly 
affection  ;  their  hearts  were  contrited,  and  their  cheeks  bedewed 
with  tears,  when  we  closed  our  farewell  addresses.    After  this 


110 


JOURNAL  OF 


we  rode  directly  to  Kiiio's^ton  about  thirty-five  miles,  and  there  took 
boat  ininiediately,  and  crossed  one  branch  of  the  river  St.  Law- 
rence that  evening.  We  likewise  crossed  the  island,  which  lies 
between,  before  dark,  it  being  about  five  miles  over ;  but  as  the 
wind  was  iinfavonifihle,  we  did  not  cross  the  other  branch  till 
next  morning.  We  lodged  in  a  small  hovisc,  being  the  only  one 
on  that  side  of  the  island.  Our  accommodations  were  very  poor, 
having  to  lie  on  the  floor,  and  on  benches  ;  but  having  the  best 
of  company,  peace  of  mind,  and  a  firm  trust  in  the  divine  bless- 
ing, it  kept  us  comfortable  and  pleasant. 

The  next  day,  the  22d  of  (he  month,  we  crossed  early  in  the 
morning,  and  rode  that  day,  to  our  friend  Samuel  Brown's,  at 
Black  River.  The  day^  after,  being  the  first  of  the  week,  we 
tarried  there,  and  liad  two  meetings  with  his  family,  and  the 
neighboius  ;  diveis  of  whom  were  sober  religious  Baptists.  They 
were  both  favoured  seasons  ;  may  the  Lord  bless  his  own  work, 
and  seal  it  to  the  lasting  advantage  of  those  who  attended. 

The  24th  and  2.5th,  we  rode  eighty-five  miles  to  Utica,  on  the 
upper  part  of  the  Mohawk  river.  The  20th,  27th  and  28th,  we 
rode  about  one  hundred  and  eighteen  miles  to  Palmyra,  in  On- 
tario county,  to  the  house  of  our  friend  Abraham  Lapham.  The 
29th  Ave  rested.  The  3()th,  being  the  first  of  the  week,  we 
attended  Friends'  meeting  in  that  neighbourhood,  and  one  in  the 
evening,  appointed  at  a  man's  house  whose  wife  was  a  member, 
about  six  miles  distant  from  the  former.  They  were  both,  I  be- 
lieve, profitable  and  edifjing  seasons.  The  31st  we  attended  a 
meeting  in  the  town  of  Palmyra,  appointed  principally  for  those 
not  of  our  society.  It  was  a  large  solemn  meeting,  wherein  the 
truths  of  the  gospel  were  largely  opened,  affecting,  solemnizing 
and  comforting  many  hearts. 

On  the  1st  of  the  11th  month,  we  rode  to  Bristol  al)Out  eigh- 
teen miles,  and  attended  a  meeting  at  the  third  hour  in  the 
afternoon.  It  was  held  in  a  Baptist  meeting-house,  and  was  a 
hard  exercising  season.  Those  who  attended  appeared  to  be 
mostly,  very  insensible  of  any  right  religious  concern  and  exer- 
cise ;  nevertheless,  through  ability  received,  after  a  considerable 
time  of  hard  silent  labour,  the  power  of  tiuth  was  exalted  among 


KLIAS  HICKS. 


Ill 


them,  and  some  hearts  were  reached  and  tendered  thereby,  and  I 
left  them  with  |)eace  of  mind. 

We  then  rode  back  thirty-seven  miles  to  Cayuga  Lake,  and 
lodged  at  an  hin.  On  the  3d,  we  rode  to  a  town  called 
Scipio,  where  a  few  Friends  resided,  who  were  indulged  with 
holding  a  meeting  under  the  care  of  the  monthly  meeting  of 
Farmington.  Here  we  had  a  meeting  at  the  eleventh  hour,  it 
being  their  usual  meeting  day.  It  was  very  small  and  low  in 
the  silent  part,  but  as  a  right  exercise  in  waiting,  was  patiently 
maintained,  truth  gradually  rose  into  dominion,  in  a  very  instruc- 
tive manner,  refreshing  and  comforting  our  minds,  in  the  sweet 
enjoyment  of  the  divine  presence,  who  manifested  himself  to  be 
graciously  near  for  our  help  in  the  needful  tune. 

After  dining  with  our  friends  we  took  leave,  and  turned  our 
faces  homeward  ;  and  in  four  days  got  to  Galloway,  to  the  house 
of  our  friend  Philip  Macomber.  The  next  day  we  rested.  The 
three  following  days  we  attended  the  meetings  of  Galloway, 
Ballstown,  and  Newtown  ;  which  were  all  comfortable  edifymg 
seasons.  The  12th  we  rode  to  Troy.  The  13th,  and  first  of  the 
week,  we  attended  two  meetings,  the  first,  at  the  eleventh  hour, 
aX  the  house  of  Zachariah  Garnrick,  about  four  miles  from  Troy, 
where  the  few  Friends  of  that  place  and  the  adjacent  neighbom- 
hood,  hold  a  little,  meeting.  It  was  enlarged  at  this  time  by 
others  coming  in,  who  were  not  of  our  society  ;  and  the  Lord 
rewarded  us  bountifully,  and  gave  us  a  heavenly  season  together, 
wherein  his  name  was  gloriously  exalted  over  all ;  and  we  parted 
with  thankful  hearts.  The  latter  meeting  was  lield  at  Troy, 
in  their  court-house.  It  was  a  large  gathering,  but  hard  and 
heavy. 

The  14th  we  rode  to  Pittstowni,  and  attended  a  meeting  at  the 
second  hour,  which  was  a  satisfactory  season,  and,  I  hope,  profit- 
able to  some  ;  although  otliers  appeared  to  be  too  much  at  ease. 
The  15th  we  rode  to  Easton,  and  attended  tlie  quarterly  meet- 
ing of  Ministers  and  Elders ;  and  the  two  following  days  we 
attended  the  quarterly  meeting  for  disciphne,  and  the  paiting 
meeting  for  worship.  The  latter  was  a  heavenly  baptizing  sea- 
son, wherein  truth  was  raised  mto  dominion  in  a  very  eminent 


112 


JOURNAL  OF 


manner,  the  hearts  of  many  were  much  broken  and  contrited,  and 
a  general  solemnity  spread  over  the  meeting ;  and  the  Lord's  name 
praised,  and  exalted  over  all,  Avho  is  worthy  for  ever. 

After  this,  we  rode  that  afternoon  to  Saratoga,  crossing  the 
river  Hudson  in  our  way  ;  and  the  next  day  Avent  to  South 
Greenfield,  and  attended  a  meeting  at  the  second  hour  in  the 
afternoon.  The  19th  we  rode  to  Providence,  and  after  a  meet- 
ing there,  went  back  again  that  afternoon  to  North  Greenfield. 
The  day  following,  being  the  first  of  the  week,  we  attended  a 
meetuig  there,  which  was  large  and  favoured,  as  were  the  two 
former.  The  21st,  we  had  an  aj)pointed  meeting  at  Saratoga 
Springs,  amongst  a  people  not-  very  imhke  those,  whom  the 
scribes,  among  the  Jews,  caUed  puljUcan^  and  siimers.  It  was, a 
profitable  edifying  season,  most  of  those  present  appearing  to 
receive  the  woi  d  with  readiness,  and  apparent  good  will ;  so  that 
it  might  have  been  said  of  some  of  them,  as  our  Lord  said  con- 
cerning some  of  this  description  in  his  day,  that  they  were  more 
likely  to  enter  the  kuigdom,  than  many  of  the  high  professors  of 
reUgion,  who  make  a  great  outward  show  of  godliness,  but  are 
void  of  the  power. 

The  23d  and  24th,  we  attended  the  montldy  meetings  of  Sara- 
toga and  Easton  ;  and  the  day  foUoudng  had  an  appomted 
meeting  at  White  Creek,  and  the  next  day  we  rode  to  East 
Hoosack.  The  27th,  and  first  of  the  week,  we  attended  Friends' 
meeting  there.  It  was  a  very  comfortable  season  ;  the  Lord  was 
with  us,  and  by  his  power  made  way  in  the  hearts  of  the  people, 
for  the  reception  of  the  testimony  given  us  to  bear  among  them. 
We  left  them  witli  thankful  hearts,  and  rode  that  evening  to  our 
friend  David  Lapham's,  in  the  township  of  Hancock ;  and  the 
next  day  had  a  meeting  at  his  house,  at  the  second  hour,  for 
the  neighbouring  inhabitants,  who  were  mostly  professors  among 
the  Baptists,  and  who  behaved  very  orderly ;  and  the  Lord,  in 
his  never  faUmg  mercy,  favoured  us  together  with  a  solemn 
instructive  season. 

The  next  day  we  passed  on  to  New  Britain,  and  rested  the 
following  day.  The  fifth  of  the  week,  and  the  1st  of  12th  month, 
we  attended  the  meeting  there,  at  its  usual  time ;  which  was 


ELrAS  HICKS. 


113 


very  large,  occasioned,  in  part,  by  our  being  there ;  and  there 
was  Ukewise  a  marriage  accomplished  thereat.  I  think,  for  the 
most  part,  it  was  a  favoured,  comfortable  season.  "  On  sixth  day 
we  attended  a  meeting  at  Kline  Kiln  ;  and  On  first  day  were  at 
Hudson,  where  we  had,  with  Friends  and  others,  at  their  meet- 
ing, a  refreshing  opportunity;  the  Lord  was  graciously  near, 
furnishing  with  strength  and  iitterance,  and  an  evidence  of  the 
divine  power  attending,  rejoicing  the  faithful,  confirming  the 
weak  and  wavering,  and  convicting  the  indolent,  the  disobedient, 
and  gainsayers.  On  second  day  we  rode  to  Little  Nine  Part- 
ners ;  and  the  four  following  days,  we  attended  meetings  at  that 
place.  Pine  Plains,  Stanford,  and  Creek ;  these  were  comforta- 
ble meetings,  wherein,  through  the  prevalence  of  truth,  many 
were  convicted,  their  hearts  tendered,  and  the  faithfiU  few  en- 
couraged, and  made  to  rejoice  ;  and  the  Lord's  name  praised  and 
exalted  over  all.  On  seventh  day  evening  we  had  an  appointed 
meeting  at  the  house  of  Thomas  Wilbur,  about  four  miles  from 
the  latter ;  and  although  hard  and  low,  yet  I  trust  in  a  good 
degree  profitable  and  instructive. 

On  first  day  we  went  to  Crum-elbow  meeting,  which  was  very 
much  crowded,  and  the  house  not  sufficient  to  hold  the  people. 
The  season  appeared  somewhat  to  represent  the  time,  when  the 
miracle  of  the  loaves  and  fishes  was  performed.  For  the  peo- 
ple's attention  appeared  to  be  generally  outward,  many  having 
come  together  out  of  curiosity,  to  see  and  hear  with  their  out- 
ward senses  ;  which  makes  hard  work  for  the  travellers,  who  are 
faithfully  engaged  in  Zion's  cause.  I  sat  long  in  silence  in 
great  poverty  and  want,  for  the  people  appeared  to  be  void  of  any 
spiritual  food,  and  no  offering  prepared  ;  but  as  I  abode  in 
patience,  and  in  the  faith,  the  query  ran  through  my  mind,  is 
there  not  a  lad  present,  who  may  have  a  few  barley  loaves  and 
fishes.  A  young  man  soon  after  stood  up,  who,  I  believed,  had 
for  some  time,  something  on  his  mind  to  ofl'er ;  and  by  a  short 
but  pertinent  communication  opened  my  way.  (Soon  after  he 
sat  down  I  stood  up,  and  the  Lord  made  way  among  the  people, 
while  I  was  led  to  open,  in  a  very  enlarged  manner,  what  the 
young  Friend  had  dropped  ;  and  the  Lord's  power  was  extended 


114 


JOURNAL  OP 


in  a  marvellous  manner  over  the  whole  assembly,  so  that  it  might 
be  said  indeed,  that  all  did  eat  and  were  filled,  and  many  frag- 
ments remained  to  be  gathered  up.  It  was  the  Lord's  doing, 
and  marvellous  in  our  eyes. 

Our  two  next  appointments  were  at  Pleasant  Valley,  and  the 
Branch,  on  second  and  third  days.  These  were  comfortable, 
and  I  trust,  profitable  seasons.  The  four  successive  days  we 
attended  the  monthly  meetings  of  Oswego,  Nine  Partners,  Creek, 
and  Stanford.  They  were  all  seasons  of  great  favour,  wherein 
I  was  largely  opened  in  the  line  of  gospel  ministry,  in  four 
several  searching  testimonies,  greatly  to  the  comfort  of  the  honest 
faithful  travellers,  and  to  the  rebuke  and  warning  of  the  careless, 
hypocritical,  and  worldly-minded  professors.  On  first  day  we 
attended  the  meeting  at  Nine  Partners,  and  notice  having  been 
previously  given  of  our  intention  of  being  there,  tlie  meeting  was 
very  large  ;  and  the  Lord's  power  was  present  with  us,  enabling 
me  to  discharge  myself  faitliliiUy  among  them,  and  instructingly 
to  di\dde  the  word,  suited  to  their  several  conditions.  The  season 
concluded  with  prayer  and  thanksgiving,  to  his  great  and  adora- 
ble name,  who  is  over  all,  God  blessed  for  ever. 

After  this,  apprehending  I  felt  liberty  to  turn  my  face  home- 
ward, and  having  for  the  two  successive  days  meetings,  appointed 
at  Chesnut  Ridge,  and  Poquague,  we  proceeded  accordingly. 
Although  I  was  under  considerable  infirmity  of  body,  and  tra- 
velled in  much  pain,  yet  through  gracious  aid,  furnished  fi-om 
the  adorable  fountain  of  all  wisdom  and  strength,  I  was  enabled 
to  attend  them  to  my  own  satisfaction,  and  the  comfort  and 
encouragement  of  my  friends.  I  was  led  forth  in  both  of  these 
meetings  in  large  affecting  testunonies ;  the  minds  of  many 
present  were  baptized  and  humbled,  and  the  faithful  feAV  refresh- 
ed, whom  the  Lord  delights  to  honour. 

On  fourth  day  we  crossed  the  Higlilands,  and  rode  down  to 
the  mouth  of  Croton  River,  about  forty-two  miles.  It  was  wea- 
risome to  my  afflicted  body,  but  believing  it  right  for  us  so  to 
proceed,  and  having  faith  in  the  divine  sufficiency,  I  was  sus- 
tained even  beyond  rational  expectation.  The  day  following 
being  Friends'  meeting  day  in  that  place,  we  had  a  comfortable 


ELTAS  HICKS. 


IIB 


opportunity  with  them,  together  with  some  of  their  neighbours ; 
and  it  was,  I  'believe,  an  instructive  edifying  season  to  many. 
May  it  ftisten  as  a  nail  in  a  sure  place. 

After  this  we  passed  on  to  New- York,  where  we  tarried  over 
first  day,  and  attended  their  forenoon  and  afternoon  meetings ; 
also  an  appointed  meeting  in  the  evening,  at  their  new  meeting- 
house. They  were  large  and  very  exercising,  yet,  I  trust,  in  the 
main,  profitable  meeting?!.  On  second  day  the  26th  of  12th month, 
we  rode  home,  and  I  found  my  family  well,  which,  together 
with  the  Lord's  mercies  and  preservations,  vouchsafed  to  me  in 
this  arduous  journey,  caused  my  heart  to  be  filled  with  gratitude 
and  thanksgiving  to  His  great  and  worthy  name,  to  whom  be- 
longs all  praise,  adoration  and  worship,  from  the  rising  of  the 
sun  to  the  going  down  of  the  same,  throughout  all  ages,  world 
without  end.  Amen. 

I  was  out  in  this  journey  abovtt  three  months,  and  rode  about 
fifteen  hundred  and  seventy-five  miles. 

In  the  spring  of  the  year  1806,  feeling  my  mind  drawn  in 
gospel  love,  to  pay  a  religious  visit  to  some  of  the  neighbouring 
towns  and  villages  on  our  island,  Staten  Island  and  New- York, 
among  those  not  in  profession  with  us  ;  and  opening  my  concern 
to  our  monthly  meeting,  I  received  the  concurrence  and  unity 
of  my  friends  therein.  I  was  fiom  home  in  this  service  about 
twenty  days,  and  had  about  thirty  meetings  among  those  not  of 
our  society,  generally  to  good  satisfaction,  and  to  the  peace  of  my 
own  mind.  Many,  in  most  places,  appeared  convinced  of  the 
truth  and  propriety  of  our  doctrine  and  principles,  as  they  were 
communicated,  and  divers  feelingly  expressed  their  satisfaction 
therewith,  and  the  heart-felt  comfort  they  witnessed  in  those 
opportunities  ;  and  I  had  cause  to  hope  that  light  was  breaking 
forth  in  some  places,  which  had  long  been  under  the  power  of 
great  darkness,  through  the  rmdue  force  of  wi'ong  customs,  and 
a  false  education,  principally  propagated  by  a  mercenary,  anti- 
christian  ministry.  My  mind  was  often  affected,  in  considering 
the  emptiness  and  fruitless  state  of  many  of  those  professors 
under  different  names,  who  had  a  form  of  godliness,  and  were 
very  zealous  in  attending  to  the  outside  ceremonials,  of  what 


116 


.lOtiRNAL  OF 


ihey  called  religion  and  worship ;  but  in  their  lives  and  conduct 
denied  the  power  thereof,  l)eing  persuaded  by  their  blind  guides, 
to  believe  they  might  bo  saints,  while  they  were  sinners,  and 
stand  in  a  state  of  justification,  without  sanctification.  But  this 
is  a  false  and  very  dangerous  doctrine.  O,  saith  my  spirit,  may 
the  hght  of  Israel  arise  and  come  forth,  and  by  the  brightness  of 
its  arising,  dispel  all  those  mists  and  fogs,  those  wprks  of  dark- 
ness, which  those  lilind  guides  have  raised  up  between  God  and 
the  souls  of  the  people  ;  and  deliver  the  nations  out  of  the  hands 
of  all  oppressors,  that  so  none,  at  the  awful  closing  period,  may 
witness  verified  in  themselves,  that  solemn  truth,  that  "  if  the 
blind  lead  the  blind,  both  shall  fall  into  the  ditch." 

In  the  fall  of  tire  year  1806,  feeling  my  mind  drawn  to  visit 
some  parts  of  the  quarterly  meetuigs  of  Purchase,  Nine  Partners, 
and  Stanford,  with  some  adjacent  places,  not  among  Friends, 
and  obtaining  the  vmity  and  concurrence  of  our  monthly  meeting 
therein,  I  set  forward  the  8th  of  12th  month  ;  Thomas  Willis 
kindly  joining  me  as  a  companion  in  this  journey.  On  third 
day  we  attended  the  meeting  for  sufferings  in  New- York,  and  in 
the  evening  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Brooklyn,  which 
was  a  solemn,  comfortable  season.  Fourth  day,  being  the  day 
on  which  Friends'  meeting  was  held  in  the  city,  notice  was 
given  of  our  intention  of  being  there.  It  was  a  pretty  large  meet- 
ing, and  in  a  good  degree  favoured  with  the  spreading  of  the 
divine  canopy,  and  strength  was  afforded  to  communicate  to  the 
various  situations  of  those  present ;  to  the  honest-hearted  and 
truly  exercised  travellers,  comfort  and  encouragement,  and  of 
this  number,  I  tmst,  there  are  a  few  preserved  in  this  city  of  great 
stir  and  commotion ;  and  to  the  careless,  the  unguarded  and 
refractory,  caution  and  rebuke. 

After  this  we  passed  on  to  Mamaroneck,  and  lodged  with  our 
kind  friend  Richard  Mott.  The  three  following  daj  s  of  this  week, 
we  attended  the  monthly  meetings  of  Purchase,  Shapaqua  and 
Amawalk.  We  stayed  over  their  first  day  meeting  at  Amawalk, 
which  was  large,  many  of  otlier  societies  coming  in  ;  and  had 
an  appointed  meeting  in  the  evening  at  Peekskill.  These  were 
all  seasons  of  favour,  comforting  and  refreshing  to  my  mind, 


♦ 


ELIAS  HICKS.  117 

On  second  day,  the  15th  of  the  month,  we  proceeded  on  our 
journey,  and  reached,  seasonably  in  the  evening,  the  house  of  our 
kind  friend  Enoch  Borland,  at  or  near  Oswego.  On  third  day 
we  rode  to  Nine  Partners.  On  fourth  day  we  attended  the 
monthly  meeting  of  Oswego  ;  both  the  meeting  for  worship,  and 
that  for  discipline,  were  well  conducted,  and  truth  reigned  ;  which 
made  them  comfortable  and  instmctive.  On  fifth,  sixth  and 
seventh  days,  we  attended  the  monthly  meetings  of  Nine  Part- 
ners, Creek,  and  Stanford.  Nothing  transpired  in  either  of  these 
imusual.  We  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Northeast,  on  fiist 
day,  and  also  a  meeting  in  the  evening  at  Little  Nine  Partners ; 
both  seeisons  of  favour.  On  second  day  we  rode  to  Hydson,  and 
the  next  day  attended  their  monthly  meeting,  and  likewise  had 
a  large  pubUc  meeting  in  the  evening  with  Friends  and  others. 
I  have  cause  to  acknowledge  the  goodness  and  mercy  of  the 
Shepherd  of  Israel,  who  has  been  pleased  graciously  to  mani- 
fest his  presence  and  power  for  om-  help  and  encouragement, 
from  seaiion  to  season,  enabUng  us  to  labour,  to  the  comfort  and 
refreshment  of  the  honest-hearted  and  faithful  among  the  breth- 
ren and  sisters,  and  to  impart  counsel  and  caution  to  the  varied 
states  of  those  amongst  whom  our  lots  were  cast,  and  stirring  up 
the  pure  mind  in  many.  So  that  in  many  places  it  appeared  to 
be  a  renewed  visitation  of  divine  love  to  the  people,  for  which 
many  hearts  with  our  own  were  made  thankful. 

On  fourth  and  fifth  days  we  had  meetings  with  Friends  at 
Kline  Kiln,  and  New  Britain  ;  and  on  sixth  day  we  had  an  op- 
portunity with  those  not  in  profession  with  us,  at  a  place  called 
Phihpstown.  The  meeting  was  held  in  a  meeting-house  be- 
longing to  the  Presbyterians,  and  a  precious  season  it  proved, 
tendering  the  hearts  of  most  present ;  truth  prevaihng  over  all, 
to  the  praise  and  glory  of  His  grace,  who  hath  called  us  to  labour 
in  his  vineyard.  ' 

We  went  from  this  place  to  Troy  and  attended  Friends'  meet- 
ing on  first  day  ;  and  had  a  large  public  meeting  in  the  evening 
with  the  inhabitants  of  the  town.  On  second  and  third  day 
evenings,  we  had  meetings  in  the  towns  of  Waterford  and  Lan- 
singburgh  •,  the  former  was  held  in  a  meeting-house  belonging 


118 


JOURNAL  OP 


to  the  Methodist  society  ;  and  the  latter,  by  their  voluntary  per- 
mission, in  the  Episcopal  meeting-house.  These  were  all  seasons 
of  favour,  esijeciaily  tlie  last,  in  which  truth  was  powerfully 
manifest,  solenmiziiig  the  assembly,  tendering  and  melting  many 
hearts  into  contrition,  and  raising  an  acknowledgment  to  its 
divine  power.  , 

On  fourth  day  we  attended  Friends'  preparative  meeting  at 
Troy,  and  also  an  appointed  meeting  for  the  inhabitants  of  the 
town  in  the  evening.  The  next  morning  previous  to  our  leaving 
there,  we  had  a  precious  opportunity  with  three  or  four  famihes 
of  Friends,  the  heads  of  which  were  all  brethren  and  sisters  of 
each  othes,  by  bkxxl,  or  marriage.  It  was  a  season  wherein  the 
Lord  was  pleased  to  magnify  his  power,  and  cause  every  heart 
to  bow  and  acknowledge  to  its  blessed  and  mollifying  influence, 
which  prevailed  over  all  to  our  mutual  rejoicing. 

The  visit  being  over  we  took  leave  of  our  friends,  and  rode 
that  afternoon  to  Albany,  and  attended  a  pretty  large  meeting, 
held  that  evening  in  theii-  court-house.  It  was,  I  beheve,  to 
many,  a  profitable  edifying  season.  On  sixth  day  morning, 
feeling  my  mind  drawn  to  have  a  select  opportunity,  with  the 
few  members  of  our  society  resident  in  this  city,  they  were  noti- 
fied thereof,  and  came  together  early  in  the  forenoon.  We  had  a 
satisfactory  season  with  them,  in  which  I  was  favoured  to  clear 
myself  of  a  burden  I  felt  on  their  account,  in  a  plain  tender  man- 
ner, comforting  tlie  sincere-hearted,  and  stirring  up  the  careless 
and  lukewarm.  After  this  we  took  our  leave  m  brotherly  affec- 
tion, with  quiet  and  peacefiil  minds,  and  with  an  evidence  of 
having  faithfully  discharged  our  duty,  which  made  our  journey- 
ing forward  pleasant,  as  we  passed  on  to  Duanesburgh,  where 
we  arrived  that  evening.  On  seventh  day  we  rested.  On  first 
day  the  4th  of  1st  month,  1807,  we  attended  the  meeting  there, 
and  notice'  being  given  of  our  attendance,  it  was  a  very  large 
meeting,  wherein  truth  reigned.  Many  doctrinal  truths  were 
opened  to  the  people,  and  the  gospel  preached  in  the  clear  demon- 
stration of  the  spirit ;  to  the  Lord  only  wise,  gracious  and  merci- 
ful, be  the  praise,  who  is  the  blessed  author  thereof ;  nothing  due 
to  man. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


119 


The  next  day  we  Iiad  a  meeting  in  our  way  to  Otego,  near 
a  village  called  Chailestown,  at  tlie  house  of  a  man  inclining  to 
Friends,  in  which  I  was  enal>led  to  communicate,  in  gospel 
authority,  to  the  tendering  and  contiiting  of  many  hearts. 

We  reached  Otego  on  fointli  ilay,  a  liltle  before  meeting  time, 
it  being  Friends'  usual  meeting  day,  which,  therefore,  afforded 
but  little  opportunity  of  notifying  their  neighbours ;  bat  some 
hearing  thereof,  attended.  It  was  a  glorious  meeting,  which 
richly  paid  iis  for  all  our  toil  in  getting  there,  yea  an  hundred 
fold  ;  magnified  for  ever  be  the  name  of  the  Lord,  who  graciously 
manifested  his  power  for  our  help,  comforting  many  hearts,  and 
causing  the  faithful  to  rejoice  together,  ui  the  sweet  incomes  of 
his  love  and  hfe.  On  fifth  day,  we  attended  Friends'  meeting 
held  at  Burlington  in  the  middle  of  the  week.  The  neighbour- 
ing inhabitants  having  notice  of  our  comings  generally  attended, 
and  although  the  life  did  not  appear  to  rise  so  high  as  in  the 
foregoing  meeting,  yet,  for  the  most  part,  I  beheve,  it  was  a 
profitable  edifying  season.  We  rode  to  Deruyter  on  sixth  day, 
and  on  seventh  day  rested,  and  mended  our  carriage,  which  was 
much  injured  and  broken  by  our  journey  to  this  place.  On 
first  day,  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  there,  which  was  much 
crowded,  the  hoUse  being  but  small.  The  Lord  was  with  us, 
and  magnified  his  power,  reaching  and  tendering  many  hearts ; 
the  gospel  was  fi  eely  preached,  and  appeared  to  be  freely  received 
by  the  auditory  in  general. 

On  second  day,  we  had  a  meeting  at  a  town  called  Woodstock, 
at  the  eleventh  hour,  and  one  in  the  evening  at  Cazenovia. 
There  were  no  Friends  living  in  either  of  these  places,  and  the 
people  in  general  appeared  dark  and  ignorant,  yet,  they  were 
attentive  to  what  was  communicated ;  and  many  of  them  appeared 
thankful  for  the  opportunities,  and  desired  our  longer  continuance 
among  them  ;  but  we  took  our  leave,  and  left  them  Avith  our 
minds  clothed  with  peace.  We  then  turned  our  faces  home- 
ward, being  desirous  of  getting  back  in  time  to  attend  the  ensu- 
ing quarterly  meeting  of  Nine  Partners,  to  be  held  in  the  forepart 
of  2d  month.  We  felt  our  minds  drawn  to  return  by  Burlington, 
and  had  meetings  in  our  way  there,  at  Hamilton,  Brookfieid, 


120 


JOURNAL  OP 


Bridgewater,  and  one  in  the  evening  between  Bridgewater  and 
Burlington,  held  in  a  school-house,  at  a  vUlage  in  the  township 
of  Brookfield.  These  were  aU  favoured  meetings,  comfortable 
and  instinctive,  many  hearts  were  reached  and  affected  with  the 
power  of  truth,  which  was  prevalently  manifest  for  oui-  help. 

We  were  at  BurUngton  on  fust  day,  and  notice  being  generally 
spread  that  we  were  there,  it  proved  the  largest  meeting  ever 
held  in  that  place ;  and  through  the  Lord's  goodness  and  mercy 
to  us,  it  was  made  a  season  gratefully  to  be  remembered,  by,  I 
believe,  the  greater  part  of  the  meeting. 

This  bemg  over,  we  had  another  meeting  ui  the  evening,  in  a 
neighbouring  town  called  Pittsfield,  which  was  held  in  a  large 
school-house,  there  being  no  member  of  our  society  there  ;  this 
was  likewise  an  edifying  opportunity.  The  next  day  we  pro- 
ceeded to  Otego,  and  attended  a  meeting  there  at  the  eleventh 
hour,  appointed  previously  by  our  request.  It  was  a  large  meet- 
ing, and  graciously  favoured  with  the  ovei-shadowing  wing  of 
divine  kindness.  On  thiid  day  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  iu 
the  toAvnship  of  Heartwick. 

From  this  place  we  returned  to  Duanesburgh,  and  attended 
their  monthly  meeting  held  on  sixth  day.  This  meeting  was  com- 
posed of  the  preparative  meetings  of  Duanesburgh,  Otego,  Bur- 
lington, and  Deruyter.  The  latter  meeting  was  near  ninety  miles 
from  the  place  where  the  montlily  meeting  was  held  at  this  time. 
Friends  are  much  scattered  in  this  new  country,  by  reason  of 
which,  but  few,  in  some  meetings,  have  much  opportunity  of 
attending  then  monthly  meetings ;  this  is  a  great  loss  to  many 
famiUes,  especially  the  children,  many  of  whom  are  thus  de- 
prived of  the  improving  company  of  experienced  Friends  in 
meetings  for  discipline  or  othenvise.  I  have  often  thought  it  a 
very  weighty  matter  for  a  Friend  to  move  with  a  family  of  chil- 
dren so  far  from  meetings,  and  especially  meetings  for  disci- 
pline, Avhich,  I  have  often  considered  as  schools  of  very  profita- 
ble instmction  to  well-mhided  youth.  This  is  a  new  monthly 
meeting,  made  up  of  Friends  of  but  small  experience,  many  of 
them  newly  received  members.  The  business  of  the  meeting 
was  of  course  but  weakly  conducted.    We  laboured  among  them 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


121 


in  the  ability  received,  for  their  instruction  and  help,  and  there 
appeared  a  leadiness  in  some  to  receive,  who,  I  tmst,  will  Ije- 
come  useful  members,  as  they  abide  in  humility,  and  are  faith- 
fal  to  the  measure  of  grace  received.  On  seventh  day  we  rode 
to  Oakhill,  and  on  first  day  attended  Friends'  meeting  theie  ;  it 
was  a  very  full  meeting,  and  proved  satisfactory  and  instructive. 

The  foiu"  following  days  we  were  at  meetings  at  Scott's  Patent, 
Bern,  Rensselaerv  ille,  one  in  a  Friend's  house  between  the  last 
mentioned  place  and  Coeman's  Patent,  and  one  at  Coeman's 
Patent.  They  were  seasons  of  general  satisfaction,  especially  the 
last,  which  was  a  very  large  precious  meeting,  in  Avhich  the  truths 
of  the  gospel  were  largely  declared,  in  the  demonstration  of  the 
spiiit.  Many  hearts  were  tendered  and  contrited,  and  the 
Lwd's  name  praised  and  magnified,  v.  ho  is  over  all,  worthy  for 
ever. 

The  sixth,  we  rode  to  Hudson,  and  passed  most  of  the  way 
upon  the  ice,  on  the  river,  the  weather  having  been,  for  some 
days  past,  extremely  cold.  On  seventh  day  evening  we  had  an 
appointed  meeting  at  Lunenbiugh,  which  lies  on  the  west  side  of 
the  river  Hudson,  and  opposite  to  that  city.  On  first  day  we 
attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Hudson.  Both  these  meetings  were 
held,  1  beUeve,  to  general  satisfaction,  and  I  trust,  were  profitable 
and  instructive  to  many  Avho  attended. 

From  hence  we  passed  on  to  Nine  Partners,  and  reached  there 
seasonably  to  meet  with  the  committee  who  have  the  oversight 
of  the  boarding-school,  held  there  by  the  direction  of  our  yearly 
meeting,  we  being  members  of  that  committee.  By  the  accounts 
now  rendeied,  the  school  appears  in  a  prosperous  state ;  but  a 
consitlerable  difficulty  attends  [)rocuring  suitable  tutors  and  care- 
takers in  tlie  family.  On  third  day,  the  select  quarterly  meet- 
ing of  this  place  was  held,  and  on  fourth  day,  that  for  disci- 
pline ;  and  although  there  was  a  degree  of  favour  experienced,, 
yet,  in  general,  it  was  a  trying  exercising  season.  This  is  a 
large  quarterly  meeting ;  and  many  who  attend  are  mere  biilh- 
right  members,  and  having  never  known  the  baptizing  power 
of  tmth,  to  sanctify  and  prepare  for  right  and  useful  member- 
ship, are  but  as  dead  weights  in  our  religious  meetings  ;  and  some 

16 


122 


JOURNAL  OF 


Others,  who  have  joined  the  society  by  con\incemeiit,  for  want  of 
faithfully  attending  to  that  which  first  convinced  them,  have  lost 
their  first  love,  and  suffered  their  minds  too  much  to  centre  back 
again  into  the  world,  and  the  love  of  it ;  and  have  thereby 
become  stumbling  blocks  in  the  way  of  others.  These  bring 
much  exercise  and  concern  to  the  living,  who  are  daily  engaged 
for  Zion's  cause,  and  that  tmth  may  prosper  and  prevail  in  the 
earth. 

On  fifth  day,  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Pleasant  Valley, 
which  was  a  comfortable  instructive  season ;  and  another  seasonable 
opportunity  in  the  evening  at  Poughkeepsie,  composed  mostly  of 
those  not  in  membership  with  us.  On  sixth  day,  we  were  at  West 
Branch  meeting,  which  was  pretty  full,  wherein  I  had  to  go 
down  into  deep  baptism  with  the  dead,  being  plunged  into  the 
feeling  of  a  state  of  great  ignorance  and  unbelief ;  but  as  I 
patiently  sat  under  the  burden,  light  sprang  up,  and  life  came 
into  dominion ;  and  I  was  led,  in  a  clear  manner,  to  show  the 
gTound  from  whence  all  this  darkness  and  unbelief  proceeded  ; 
that  it  was  from  a  want  of  due  attention  to,  and  right  belief  in, 
the  inward  manifestation  of  divine  light.,  which  reveals  itself 
in  the  heart  of  man  against  sin  and  uncleanness ;  and  at  the 
same  time  shows  what  is  right,  and  justifies  for  right  doing. 
Therefore  while  men  disregard  this  inward  divine  principle,  of 
grace  and  truth,  and  do  not  believe  in  it,  as  essetitial  and  sttffi,- 
cient  to  salvation;  they  are  in  danger  of  becoming  either  Athe- 
ists, or  Deists — these  are  also  in  danger  of  becoming  so  blinded 
as  not  to  beheve  in  that  necessary  and  very  essential  doctrine  of 
perfection,  as  contained  in  that  clear,  rational,  and  positive  injunc- 
tion of  our  dear  Lord :  "  Be  ye  therefore  perfect,  even  as  your 
Father  wliich  is  in  heaven  is  perfect."  And  we  cannot  rationally 
suppose  they  can  ever  be  othei-wise,  while  they  continue  in  this 
situation  ;  as  nothing  but  this  light  is  sufficient  lo  produce  the 
knowledge,  on  which  this  belief  is  founded.  My  mind  was  hke- 
wise  largely  opened  to  communicate,  how  we  all  might,  by  faith- 
ful attention  and  adherence  to  the  aforesaid  divine  principle,  tfie 
light  within,  come  to  know  and  believe  the  certainty  of  those 
excellent  scripture  doctrines ;  of  the  coming,  hfe,  righteous  works, 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


123 


sufferings,  death,  and  resurrection  of  Jesus  Christ,  our  blessed 
pattern  :  and  that  it  is  by  obedience  to  this  inward  light  only, 
that  we  are  prepared  for  an  admittance  into  the  heavenly  king- 
dom. It  was  a  day  of  high  favoui',  wherein  the  Lord's  arm  was 
made  bare  for  our  help,  and  the  exaltation  of  his  own  glorious 
and  holy  name,  who  is  over  all,  blessed  for  ever. 

This  favoured  opportunity  being  over,  we  rode  that  afternoon 
to  Samuel  Borland's,  and  attended  a  meeting  there  appomted  for 
us  that  evening ;  and  lodged  with  our  worthy  friend  Enoch 
Dorland.  On  seventh  day  we  crossed  the  mountains  called  the 
Highlands,  in  our  way  liomeward,  and  got  well  to  our  friend 
Abraham  Underbill's,  at  Croton  River,  that  evening.  The  next 
day,  being  the  first  of  the  week,  we  attended  Friends'  meeting 
there,  and  notice  being  given  of  our  attendance,  the  meeting  was 
pretty  ftdl,  and  graciously  attended  with  the  divine  presence,  in 
which  strength  was  received  to  preach  the  gospel  in  the  demon- 
stration of  the  spirit.  It  was  a  season  thankfully  to  be  re- 
membered. 

On  second  day,  the  9th  of  2d  month,  1807,  we  rode  to  New 
York,  where  I  was  gladly  received  by  my  beloved  daughter 
Abigail,  and  her  kind  companion ;  we  being  mutually  glad  to 
see  each  other.  The  next  day  we  attended  our  meeting  for 
sufferings.  I  then  rode  home,  that  evening,  and  found  my  dear 
wife  and  children  well,  to  our  mutual  rejoicings  and  we  greeted 
each  other  with  thankful  hearts. 

I  was  from  home  in  this  journey  about  two  months,  and 
attended  forty-five  particular  meetings,  nine  monthly  meetings, 
one  quarterly,  and  our  meeting  for  sufferings  twice ;  and  travel- 
led upwards  of  seven  hundred  miles. 

i  After  retiu-ning  fiom  the  aforesaid  journey,  I  continued  mostly 
at  and  about  home,  for  several  months,  attending  our  several 
meetings  as  they  came  in  course ;  and  also  at  different  times, 
some  appointed  meetings  among  those  not  in  profession  with  us, 
in  some  adjacent  neighbourhoods,  to  which  I  could  go  and  retui  n 
in  a  few  days.  In  all  these  seasons,  I  have  thankfully  to 
acknowledge  the  Lord  was  near,  and  graciously  manifested  him- 
eelf  to  be  a  present  helpei>  in  every  needful  time,  furnishing  with 


124 


JOURNAL  OF 


ability  to  labour  in  the  work  of  the  gospel,  convincing,  and  com- 
forting many  hearts ;  a)id  to  the  solid  relief  and  peace  of  my 
own  mind. 

In  the  ejisuing  fall,  having  felt  my  mind  renewedly  engaged 
in  gospel  love  to  visit  a  few  of  the  meetings  of  Friends,  in  the 
three  lower  quarterly  meetings  belonging  to  our  yearly  meeting ; 
and  to  have  some  meetings  in  divers  places  in  those  parts,  among 
those  of  other  professions,  I  left  home,  with  the  unity  of  my 
friends,  the  31st  of  lOtli  month,  1807,  and  the  seventh  day  of 
the  week,  and  went  to  New- York,  having  my  beloved  wife  with 
me ;  who  proposed  to  be  my  companion  in  part  of  tliis  journey. 
We  also  took  our  two  youngest  daughters  with  us,  in  order  to 
place  them  in  the  boarding-school  at  Nme  Partners.  We 
remained  in  New- York  o\er  first  day,  and  attended  Friends' 
meetings  there ;  that  at  Pearl-street  in  the  morning,  and  at 
Liberty-street  in  the  afternoon.  They  were  both,  I  trust,  profita- 
ble meetings,  more  especially  the  former ;  in  which  tmth  pre- 
vailed, and  came  into  dominion,  solemnizing  and  comforting 
many  hearts ;  and  was  very  strengthening  to  my  mind,  in  the 
prospect  before  me. 

On  second  day  we  set  out  for  Nine  Partners,  and  reached 
there  seasonably  to  attend  the  quarterly  meeting  for  discipline,  the 
ensuing  fourth  day  ;  and  the  latter  part  of  the  week,  w  e  spent  in 
attending  the  quarterly  meeting  of  Stanford.  After  this  we 
returned  to  the  boarding-school  and  placed  our  daughters  there  ; 
and,  as  I  was  one  of  the  committee,  who  have  the  superintendence 
of  the  institution,  I  remained  there  about  ten  days.  Then  way 
opening  to  proceed,  I  went  as,  far.  as  Hartford  in  Connecticut; 
accompanied  by  tw  o  Friends  who  reside  at  Nine  Partners.  As 
the  weather  was  cold  and  unsettled,  my  wife  remained  at  the 
school,  assisting  the  managers,  until  I  returned.  We  had  seve- 
ral meetings  in  our  way  thither,  and  one  as  we  returned ;  and 
were  at  several  in  and  about  Hartford,  mostly  among  those  of 
other  professions.  And  ihe  Lord,  magnified  for  ever  be  his  right 
worthy  name,  was  graciously  pleased  to  be  with  us,  and  mani- 
fested his  power  for  our  help ;  giving  wisdom  and  strength, 
tongue  and  utterance,  and  teaching  .to  divide  the  word  aright, 


V.LIAS  niCKS. 


125 


to  the  states  of  the  people  ;  whereby  his  righteous  cause  was  ex- 
alted in  many  iniads,  and  his;  glorious  holy  truth  raised  into 
donmiion  over  all,  in  divers  of  those  favoiaed  opportunities  ;  to 
the  praise  of  his  grace,  "  who  is  over  all,  God  blessed  for  ever." 

On  my  return  to  the  school,  I  again  spent  some  days  with  the 
family,  assisting  them  in  the  management  thereof ;  and  then,  my 
wife  and  myself  took  leave  of  oiu"  children  and  friends,  in  much 
mutual  afiection  ;  and  turned  our  faces  homeward.  We  attended 
Oswego  monthly  meeting  in  our  way,  on  fourth  day,  the  16th 
of  12th  month  ;  and  the  next  day  had  an  appointed  meeting  at 
Apoquague.  On  sixth  day  we  rode  through  the  moiuitains  to 
Peekskill,  and  lodged  with  our  kind  friend  Nathaniel  Brown. 
We  attended  their  meeting  on  first  day,  and  on  second  day,  we 
had  an  appointed  meeting  at  a  place  called  Crompond  ;  which 
was  held  in  a  meeting-house  belonging  to  the  Presbyterians,  by 
their  proposal.  On  fourth  day  we  were  at  Amawalk,  on  fifth 
day  at  Shapaqua,  and  on  sixth  day  we  had  an  appointed 
meeting^  at  Mount  Pleasant ;  this  was  likewise  held  in  a  place 
of  worship  belonging  to  the  Presbyterians.  We  rode  to  New- 
York  on  seventh  day,  and  on  first  day  attended  Friends'  meet- 
ing there.  The  ihird  day  following  we  left  the  city  on  our  way 
home,  but  a  storm  came  on  soon  after  we  left,  and  increased  to 
that  degree,  that  when  we  came  to  the  ferry  at  Hiulgate,  where 
we  intended  to  cross,  we  found  it  impassable.  We  then  turned 
our  course  and  rode  to  oin-  friend  Joseph  Byrd's  at  Harlem,  and 
lodged.  I  felt  my  mind  drawn  towards  havmg  a  meeting  at 
that  place  when  passing  down  to  the  city,  but  admitting  some 
doubts  to  arise,  as  to  the  clearness  of  the  prospect,  I  omitted  it ; 
but  now,  way  opening  vvitli  more  clearness,  we  had  one  appointed 
the  next  day,  which  proved  a  favoured  season.  After  this  we 
crossed  the  ferry  that  afternoon,  and  rode  to  Flushing,  and  the 
next  day  being  the  fifth  of  the  week,  and  31st  of  12th  month, 
we  attended  Friends'  meeting  there ;  and  then  rode  home  that 
afternoon,  and  were  gladly  received  by  our  friends.  My  spirit  was 
made  humbly  joyful,  in  believing  that  the  Lord  Almighty  had 
graciously  condescended  to  be  with  us,  to  lead  us  in  the  way, 
manifesting  his  loving  kindness  and  mercy,  in  a  greater  or  lesser 


136 


JOURNAL  OF 


degree,  in  all  those  opportunities,  convicting,  convincing,  edify- 
ing and  comforting  many  hearts ;  and  encouraging  the  honest 
travellers  Zion-ward.  May  his  right  worthy  name  be  praised 
and  exalted  above  ail  for  ever. 

As  our  return  home  at  this  time  was  hastened  by  the  inclemency 
of  the  season,  we  being  out  with  a  carriage,  and  likely  to  be  pre- 
vented from  travelling  by  the  snow,  .my  mind  was  not  reUeved 
of  the  prospect  ])efore  me.  Therefore,  after  remaining  at  and 
about  home  a  few  weeks,  I  again  set  out,  with  the  unity  of  my 
friends,  in  order  to  finish  what  was  left  behind  of  my  former 
concern.  Charles  Willets  a  friend  and  neighbom-  accompanied  me. 
We  set  out  the  24th  of  1st  month,  1808,  and  attended  the  three 
quarterly  meetings  of  Purchase,  Nine  Partners,  and  Stanford,  as 
they  came  in  course  :  and  likewise  five  particular  meetings  in  the 
intermediate  space,  between  Purchase  and  Nine  Partners.  We 
were  from  home  at  this  time  about  five  weeks ;  and  attended  three 
quarterl)r  meetings,  one  monthly,  andtwenty-thiee  particular  meet- 
ings. And  I  have  abundant  cause,  with  humble  gratitude,  to 
admue  the  adorable  loving  kindness,  and  condescending  goodness, 
of  a  gracious  God  to  me  a  poor  creature ;  in  enabling  me  to  surren- 
der all  up  to  his  heavenly  disposal,  to  be  any  thing  or  nothing,  as  he 
would  have  me  to  be  ;  leading  me  from  place  to  place,  as  a  weaned 
child,  by  the  guiding  of  his  power,  and  the  influence  of  his  precious 
love :  and  teaching  me,  not  only  how  to  suflfer  want,  but  likewise, 
how  to  abound  ;  and  in  eveiy  situation  and  dispensation  which 
he  is  pleased  to  lead  into,  to  be  therewith  content.  Under  a  re- 
newed sense  whereof,  my  spirit  is  led  to  acknowledge,  that  "great 
and  marvellous  are  thy  works,  Lord  God  Almighty  ;  just  and 
true  are  thy  ways,  thou  King  of  saints."    Even  so.  Amen. 

In  the  spring  of  the  year  1808,  our  yearly  meeting,  from  an 
exercise  in  observing  the  many  deficiencies,  brought  up  in  the 
reports  fi-om  the  several  quarterly  meetings,  issued  an  epistle,  or 
minute  of  advice  and  caution,  to  its  subordinate  meetings.  And 
in  order  to  strengthen  and  enforce  the  same,  and  to  make  it  the 
more  effectual  to  promote  a  reformation,  appointed  a  committee 
to  attend  therewith.  And  I,  being  one  appointed  with  divers 
other  brethren  and  sisters,  willingly  engaged  therein  ;  as  a  con- 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


cern,  of  a  similar  nature,  had  for  some  time  previous  thereto 
attended  my  mind. 

Accordingly,  at  the  close  of  the  yearly  meeting,  we  agreed  to 
enter  upon  the  service  at  the  succeeding  quarterly  meeting  at 
Nine  Partners  ;  and  to  attend  in  succession  the  quarterly  meet- 
ings of  Stanford  and  Easton,  as  they  came  in  course.  Two 
men,  and  three  women  Friends,  joined  me  in  this  northern  tour ; 
and  several  others  of  the  committee  attended  at  the  quarterly 
meetings.  After  those  meetings,  we  proceeded  to  attend  with  the 
minute,  all  the  monthly  meetings  constituting  them  ;  except  the 
three  distant  ones,  of  Adolphustown  in  Upper  Canada,  and  Far- 
mington  and  Scipio,  in  the  western  part  of  the  state  of  New- 
York  :  also  a  considerable  number  of  the  preparative  meetings, 
cis  way  opened  therefor.  Although  great  and  many  were  the 
apparent  deviations  and  departures  of  many  of  our  members,  in 
the  varied  classes  of  society,  from  that  ancient  simpUcity  and 
integrity,  which  marked  the  conduct  of  our  worthy  predecessors, 
in  the  dawn  of  this  latter  gospel  day  ;  and  by  this  declension, 
those  noble  testimonies  given  us  to  bear,  for  the  prince  of  peace, 
and  the  promotion  of  the  ca«se  of  truth  and  righteousness  in  the 
earth,  were  by  many,  but  weakly  supported ;  and  by  others, 
almost  wholly  neglected ;  grieving  and  wounding  the  hearts  of 
the  faithfid,  and  reproaching  our  Christian  profession  :  neverthe- 
less, we  had  abundant  cause  gratefidly  to  acknowledge  the  con- 
descending goodness  and  mercy  of  the  great  Head  of  the  Church, 
in  uniting  us  together  in  the  work,  and  in  owning  the  concern 
from  place  to  place  ;  giving  full  evidence  thereto  in  a  general 
manner,  by  the  manifestations  of  his  love  and  power  ;  and 
thereby  enabling  and  qualifying  his  weak  and  unworthy  though 
devoted  servants,  who  were  very  sensible  they  had  no  might  nor 
ability  of  their  own,  to  perform  the  service  they  were  engaged  in,  to 
his  honom,  or  the  promotion  of  his  righteous  cause  ;  and  to  com- 
municate coimsel  and  encouragement,  reproof  and  caution,  as 
occasion  required,  and  opportunity  offered  ;  by  which  the  faithlid 
were  strengthened,  and  made  at  times  to  rejoice  together,  the 
hearts  of  Friends  being  in  a  very  general  marmer,  opened  cor- 
dially to  receive  us  and  the  concern,  with  much  unanimity. 


128 


.TnilRNAT.  OP 


We  had  many  precious  opportunities  as  we  passed  along,  in 
public  meetings,  (many  of  which  were  much  crowded,  by  those 
coming  in  who  were  not  in  membership  with  us,)  and  also  in  meet- 
ings for  discipline  ;  truth  being  often  raised  powerfully  into  domi- 
nion over  all.  So  that  in  many  of  those  favoured  seasons,  we  were 
strengthened  to  set  up  our  Ebcnezer,  and  to  say,  in  the  heart-felt 
language  of  filial  and  grateful  acknowledgments,  "hitherto  hath 
the  Lord  helped  us."  And,  I  believe,  it  was  a  season  of  renewed 
powerfid  visitation,  and  manifestation  of  the  Lord's  mercy  to 
many  ;  not  only  to  the  memliers  of  our  society,  but  also,  to  others 
that  are  Avithout,  who  were  favoured  with  the  privilege  of  attend- 
ing the  pul)lic-  meetings. 

After  getting  through  this  part  of  the  service,  which  took  us 
between  nine  and  ten  weeks,  in  which  time  we  travelled  upwards 
of  one  thousand  miles,  and  attended  three  quarterly  meetings, 
seventeen  monthly  meetings,  sixteen  preparative  meetings,  and 
forty  public  meetings  for  worship,  including  those  that  preceded 
the  monthly  and  preparative  jneetings,  we  returned  home,  and 
remained  until  the  time  of  the  next  quarterly  meetings'  coming 
on  when  I  again  joined  some  of  the  committee,  and  attended 
the  quarterly  meetings  of  Westbvny  and  Purchase,  and  all  the 
monthly  meetings  constituting  them  ;  except  Pvuchase  monthly 
meeting.  And  I  may  say  with  gratitude  of  heart,  that  the  same 
divine  power  that  attended  in  the  foregoing  part  of  the  visit,  was 
again  manifested  for  our  help,  in  going  through,  and  finishing 
the  service,  to  the  humble  admiration  and  solid  peace  of  my 
own  mind,  and  the  praise  of  his  own  right  worthy  name,  "  who 
is  over  all,  God  blessed  for  ever."  How  great  and  wonderful 
is  his  goodness  and  loving  kindness  to  the  children  of  men;  his 
mercies  are  present  every  moment ;  and  as  saith  the  prophet, 
"  they  are  new  every  morning  :"  therefore  saith  my  soul  let  all 
praise  and  exalt  him  above  all,  for  his  mercy  enduretb  for  ever. 

In  the  latter  part  of  the  winter,  and  spring  of  the  year  1 809, 
with  the  concurrence  of  our  monthly  meeting,  I  made  a  pretty 
general  visit  to  the  meetings  of  Friends,  within  the  quarterly 
meeting  of  Purchase ;  and  attended  some  meetings  belonging  to 
Nine  Partners  quarterly  meetmg ;  and  also  appointed  a  const- 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


129 


derable  number  among  others,  in  the  adjacent  parts.  I  found 
great  openness  generally  among  the  people,  to  hear  the  truths  of 
the  gospel ;  and  a  number,  I  believe,  received  them  with  sincerity 
of  heart ;  and  I  was  made  glad  in  believing,  that  the  Lord  was 
graciously  near,  and  accompanied  the  word  preached,  with  his 
heart-tendering  power,  comforting  and  refreshing  the  broken 
hearted,  reviving  the  spirit  of  the  contrite  ones,  and  stopping  the 
mouths  of  gainsayers.  For  these  favours  my  soul  was  often 
bowed,  in  deep  humility  and  contrition  of  spirit,  accompanied 
with  grateful  acknowledgments  and  thanksgiving,  for  his  won- 
derful works  to  (he  children  of  men. 

The  year  1810,  I  spent  mostly  at  home,  except  performing 
a  visit  to  some  of  the  neighbouring  inhabitants,  not  in  member- 
ship with  us.  I  was  from  home  in  this  service  a  few  weeks  in 
the  spring ;  and  in  the  summer  I  performed  a  visit  to  the  half 
year's  meeting  at  Canada,  by  appointment  from  our  yearly 
meeting. 

I  passed  the  year  1811  at  and  near  home,  in  attending  our 
own  and  some  adjacent  meetings  ;  also  some  meetings  in  divers 
neighbourhoods  among  other  societies.  I  had  frequent  cause  to 
rejoice  in  a  living  hope,  that  truth  was  gradually  rising,  and  the 
true  light  shining  more  and  more  in  the  hearts  of  the  people ; 
and  that  in  the  Lord's  time,  it  woidd  be  exalted  and  become  a 
great  moimtain,  and  fill  the  whole  earth. 

In  the  winter  and  spring  of  the  year  1812,  with  the  concur- 
rence of  my  friends,  I  passed  alx)iit  four  weeks  in  visiting  the 
neighbouring  inhabitonts,  not  of  our  society.  I  had  twenty-eight 
meetings,  all  held  in  private  houses  ;  many  of  them  were  very 
large  and  crowded,  and  the  Lord  was  graciousJy  near,  comforting 
and  refreshing  the  sincere-hearted,  and  opening  counsel  to  those 
who  wanted  information,  and  sealing  his  tesfimony  on  the  minds 
of  the  people,  to  the  exaltaticui  of  his  own  righteous  cause,  and 
to  the  glory  of  his  excellent  name,  "  who  is  over  all,  God  blessed 
for  ever." 

In  the  forepart  of  the  winter  of  1813,  feeling  a  renewed  con- 
cern toward  the  neighbom  ing  inhabitants  of  our  island,  and  New- 
York,  not  in  profession  with  us ;  many  of  whom  are  as  sheep 

17 


130 


JOURNAL  OP 


without  a  shepherd,  and  appeared  to  be  under  exercise  and  con- 
cern, to  be  rightly  instructed  in  the  way  of  peace  and  salvation,  in 
gospel  love,  and  with  the  unity  of  my  friends,  1  paid  them  a  visit. 
I  had  upwards  of  twenty  meetings  in  the  different  parts,  much 
to  my  own  satisfaction,  and,  I  trust,  to  the  edification  and  com- 
fort of  many  who  attended.  The  Lord,  our  gracious  helper,  was 
near,  and  covered  the  assemblies  with  his  solemnizing  presence 
and  power  ;  and  instructed  to  divide  the  word  to  the  several 
states,  in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit.  For  these  vmmerited 
favours,  I  was  made  at  seasons  to  rejoice,  and  in  deep  humilia- 
tion and  thankfuhiess  of  heart,  to  joy  in  the  God  of  my  salvation, 
who  does  wondrous  things  in  mercy,  for  the  children  of  men,  in 
order  to  hide  pride  from  man,  and  turn  him  from  his  unrighteous 
purposes,  and  save  his  soul  from  the  pit,  that  so  he  may  know, 
and  seek  after  God. 

Before  I  had  got  fully  through  this  little  tour  of  duty,  a  further 
prospect  opened,  toward  a  visit  to  Friends  and  others  in  the 
compass  of  Purchase  quarterly  meeting,  and  some  of  the  neigh- 
bouring parts  of  the  state  of  Connecticut,  where  none  of  our 
society  reside :  and  under  the  impression  of  duty  I  laid  the  con- 
cern before  our  monthly  meeting  held  in  1st  month,  1813,  and 
received  its  concurrence,  in  a  short  minute  for  that  purpose.  I 
left  home  the  6th  of  2d  month  following,  my  kind  friend  Gideon 
Seaman,  an  Elder,  and  member  of  Westbury  monthly  meeting, 
accompanied  me  in  this  visit. 

We  passed  to  New- York  on  our  way,  and  on  first  day  attended 
the  forenoon  meeting  at  Pearl-street,  and  the  afternoon  meeting 
at  Liberty-street ;  and  had  an  appointed  meeting  on  second  day 
evening  in  the  northeast  part  of  the  town,  in  a  large  room  in  a 
public  house.  It  was  a  favuured  season,  and  largely  attended  ; 
many  more  came  than  the  room  could  contain.  The  two  fore- 
going meetings  were  also  favoured  strengthening  opportunities, 
affording  encouragement  in  my  first  setting  out  in  the  weighty 
and  solemn  sei-vice  before  me,  which  I  always  esteem  that  of 
appointing  meetings  to  be,  more  especially  those  among  strangers ; 
many  of  whom  know  but  httle  of  us,  or  of  the  manner  in  which 
we  hold  our  meetings,  and  therefore  are  apt  to  got  restless,  and 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


131 


sometimes  much  disquieted  at  our  sitting  so  long  in  silence,  as  we 
often  have  to  do ;  that  it  i  eriuires,  in  Friends,  at  such  seasons,  a 
very  deep  indwelling  with  the  seed  of  hfe,  to  prevent  being  jostled, 
or  interrupted  in  our  inward  travail  and  waiting,  for  the  pure 
motion  of  life  ;  lest,  by  their  eagerness  to  hear  words,  Friends  on 
those  occasions,  might  be  led  to  venture  on  too  small  an  intima- 
tion and  without  sufficiently  turning  the  fleece  again  and  again, 
and  to  feel  clearly,  that,  "wo  is  unto  me,  if  I  preach  not  the 
gospel."'  For  want  of  this  care,  there  is  danger  sometimes  of  our 
running  in  vain,  and  so  not  profit  the  people  at  all,  nor  piocure 
peace  to  our  own  minds. 

I  was  from  home  in  this  journey  alsout  foin^  weeks,  and  rode 
upwards  of  three  hundred  miles ;  and  attended  twenty-five  meet- 
ings, and  our  meeting  for  sufferings  (wice.  Twelve  of  these 
meetings  were  among  people  not  of  our  society ;  and  where  there 
are  no  meetings  of  Friends.  Among  these  I  found  great  open- 
ness to  receive  us,  and  our  testimony ;  many  expressed  their  satis- 
faction with  the  opportunities,  and  manifested  a  desire  in  most 
places,  that  we  would  stay  longer  with  them,  and  have  more 
meetings.  Indeed  truth  was  so  prevalent  in  those  meetings,  as 
not  only  to  silence,  at  least  for  the  present,  all  opposition,  but  in 
many  of  them  to  reign  triumphantly  over  all ;  whereby  many 
minds  were  comforted  and  instructed,  and  the  power  of  truth 
exalted  ;  and  our  hearts  made  glad  in  believing,  that  the  Shep- 
herd of  Israel  is  still  availingly  stretching  forth  the  crook  of  his 
love,  and  will  gather  many  from  the  highways  and  hedges; 
whom,  as  they  attend  to  his  call,  and  abide  faithful  to  the  end,  he 
will  clothe  with  the  wedding  garment,  and  admit  into  the  mar- 
riage chamber  of  the  Lamb;  while  many  of  those,  who  have  been 
long  and  often  invited,  but  are  nevertheless  making  excuses,  in 
order  to  attend  to  their  farms,  their  merchandize,  their  oxen,  &c., 
will  not  be  able  to  enter. 


132 


JOURJSAL  OF 


CHAPTER  VI. 

Engagements  at  and  about  home,  1813. — Visit  to  Friends  in  the  middle  and 
southern  states,  1813. 

Sixth  day,  2Gth  of  3d  mouth,  1813.  My  worldly  concerns 
engrossed  much  of  my  time  to-day.  How  true  is  that  saying, 
"  No  man  can  serve  two  masters."  O,  how  hard  a  master  the 
world  is ;  and  from  whose  servitude  I  often  feel  strong  desires  to 
be  fully  redeemed ;  so  that  all  my  time  may  be  more  fully  dedicated 
to  the  service  of  my  heavenly  master,  whom,  I  often  feel,  1  sincerely 
love. 

Seventh  day.  Part  of  this  day  I  spent  in  repairing  a  vehicle, 
in  which  I  have  travelled  several  thousand  miles,  in  my  religious 
engagements.  Most  of  the  evening  was  occupied  in  reading  the 
excellent  doctrine  of  our  Lord  relative  to  the  Comforter,  and  the 
vmion  and  commimion  between  himself  and  his  faithful  follow- 
ers, as  recorded  by  John  the  Evangelist.  If  it  is  sweet  and  plea- 
sant to  read,  how  much  more  precious  and  excellent  is  it  to  know 
and  witness  it  in  our  own  experience. 

First  day.  Our  meeting  this  day  passed  in  silent  labour. 
The  cloud  rested  on  the  tabernacle  :  and,  although  it  was  a  day 
of  much  rain  outwardly,  yet  very  little  of  the  dew  of  Hermon 
appeared  to  distil  among  us.  Nevertheless,  a  comfortable  calm 
was  witnessed  towards  the  close ;  which  we  must  render  to  the 
account  of  unmerited  mercy  and  love. 

Second  day.  Most  of  tliis  day  w^s  occupied  in  a  visit  to  a 
sick  friend,  who  appeared  comforted  therewith.  Spent  part  of 
the  evening  in  reading  part  of  Paul's  Epistle  to  the  Romans. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


133 


Third  day.  I  was  biisied  most  of  tlxis  day  iii  my  common 
vocations.  Spent  the  evening  principally  in  reading  Paul. 
Found  considerable  satisfaction  in  his  first  epistle  to  the  Corin- 
thians ;  in  which  he  shows  the  danger  of  some  in  setting  too  high 
a  value  on  those  who  were  instrumental  in  bringing  them  to  the 
knowledge  of  the  truth,  without,  looking  through  and  beyond  the 
instrument,  to  the  great  first  cause  and  Author  of  every  blessing, 
to  whom  all  the  praise  and  honour  are  due. 

Fifth  da)-,  1st  of  '^Ith  month.  At  our  meeting  to-day  found  it, 
as  usual,  a  very  close  steady  exercise  to  keep  the  mind  centered 
where  it  ought  to  be.  What  a  multitude  of  intruding  thoughts 
imperceptibly,  as  it  were,  steal  into  the  mind,  and  tui  n  it  from  its 
proper  object,  whenever  it  relaxes  its  vigilance  in  watching  against 
them.  Felt  a  Utile  strength,  just  at  the  close,  to  remind  Friends 
of  the  necessity  of  a  steady  perseverance,  by  a  recapitulation  of 
the  parable  of  the  unjust  judge,  showing  how  men  ought  always 
to  pra}^,  and  not  to  faint. 

Sixth  day.  Nothing  material  occurred,  but  a  fear  lest  the 
cares  of  the  world  should  engi  oss  too  much  of  my  time. 

Seventh  day.  Had  an  agreeable  visit  from  two  ancient  friends, 
whom  I  have  long  loved.  The  rest  of  the  day  I  employed  in 
manual  lalwur,  mostly  in  gardening. 

First  day.  Felt  my  mind  drawn  to  attend  to-day  a  meeting, 
a  few  miles  from  home,  held,  for  the  present,  by;  indulgence  of 
Friends.  I  was  led  forth  in  a  line  of  encovuagement  and  caution 
to  a  seeking  travailing  remnant ;  and  in  warning  to  the  indolent 
and  self-righteous,  endeavouring  to  show  them  the  danger  of 
resting  in  such  a  polluted  state ;  many  hearts  were  contrited,  and 
a  comfortable  solemnity  clothed  the  meeting,  for  which  we  were 
made  thankflil  to  the  gracious  Author  of  all  our  blessings. 

Second  day.  This  day  spent  in  manual  labour,  a  less  pro- 
portion of  which  woidd  suffice  for  me,  if  every  other  man  was 
disposed  to  do  his  part :  but  the  poor  and  the  indolent  must  and 
will  be  helped. 

Third  and  fourth  days.  Mostly  occupied  in  my  temporal 
concerns,  with  attendant  poverty  of  spirit,  and  a  longing  after 
spiritual  food,  free  from  condemnation. 


134 


JOURNAL  OP 


Fifth  day.  Attended  our  preparative  meeting,  at  which  our 
queries  were  read,  and  answers  prepared  to  be  sent  to  the  yearly 
meeting ;  but  too  much,  I  fear,  in  a  formal  way,  and  may,  if 
not  well  guarded  against,  become  a  snare  to  us,  as  the  brazen 
serpent  was  to  Israel. 

Sixth  day.  I  can  say  little  more  than  that  I  wearied  myself 
with  hard  labour  in  assisting  my  workmen  to  build  stone  fences. 
In  the  evening  read  Paul's  Epistle  to  the  Galatians,  in  wliich  I 
think  he  has  fully  shown  the  final  end  and  abolishment  of  all 
outward  ordinances  and  obsei-vations  in  matters  of  religion. 

Seventh  day.  This  day  I  spent  mostly  in  manual  labour. 
Some  little  interruption  of  mind  by  the  improper  conduct  of  one 
of  my  labourers.  How  hard  a  thing  it  is  to  find,  in  such  persons, 
honesty,  industry,  and  a  suitable  deportment,  iu\ited  in  the  same 
individual;  and  yet  it  is  no  more  than  ought  to  be  in  every  man, 
and  it  is  always  their  duty  and  interest  to  be  so. 

First  day.  At  our  meeting  to-day  the  fire  seemed  very  low 
on  the  altar.  Dulness,  and  a  spirit  of  heaviness  were  too  pre- 
dominant with  many;  occasioned,  no  doubt,  by  a  too  near  attach- 
ment to  the  world,  and  the  things  of  it,  with  some,  and  by  too 
much  lightness  and  vanity  with  others.  Alas,  how  much  good 
seed  is  lost  by  the  wayside,  in  stony  places,  and  on  thorny 
ground.  Just  at  the  close,  I  was  engaged  to  call  the  attention 
of  the  people  to  the  necessity  of  having  always  a  proper  point,  or 
object  to  aim  at,  a  right  centre  to  all  their  hopes  and  desires  ;  and 
that  God  was  the  only  proper  object  for  man  to  set  his  heart 
upon,  as  the  doing  his  will  is  the  whole  sum  and  substance  of 
all  true  religion  and  worship. 

Second,  third  and  fourth  days.  Spent  in  usual  labour,  with 
a  peaceful  mind. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  oiu-  monthly  meeting  to  day,  at  which 
I  received  a  certificate  of  their  unity  and  concurrence  with  a 
prospect,  wliich  I  had  previously  opened  to  them,  of  perform- 
ing a  religious  visit  to  Friends  and  others,  in  some  parts  of  the 
yearly  meetings  of  Pennsylvania  and  Baltimore,  and  the  adja- 
cent parts  of  Virginia.  How  humbling  it  is  to  the  natural  man 
to  be  called  to  the  performance  of  those  duties,  for  which  he  feels 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


133 


hiuaself  destitute  of  every  right  means  and  capacity  :  he  is  there- 
fore brought  under  the  necessity  of  trusting  in,  and  depending 
upon,  that  invisible  arm  of  power,  whiclr  is  beyond  the  reach  of 
all  mortals  to  command  or  controul. 

Sixth  day.  Felt  much  poverty  of  spirit  at  our  preparative 
meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders.  How  necessary  it  is  for  such 
as  fill  those  stations  in  society,  to  dig  faithfully  with  their  staves, 
like  the  princes  and  nobles  of  Israel  formerly,  by  the  direction  of 
the  lawgiver,  saying,  "  spring  up,  O  well,  sing  ye  unto  it ;"  that 
so  they  may  be  favoured  both  with  the  upper  and  the  nether 
spring :  for  how  othenvise  can  they  be  good  waymarks  and  en- 
samples  to  the  flock,  over  whom  the  Holy  Ghost  has  made  aU 
the  rightly  qualified  of  this  description  overseers,  and  who  will 
have  to  give  an  accoimt  of  the  flock  under  their  charge. 

Sev'enth  day.  Spent  in  my  usual  vocation  as  a  farmer  or 
husbamhiian,  in  which  I  need  incessantly  to  watch  against  the 
intrusions  of  worldly  cares. 

First  day.  Had  close  exercise,  through  the  greatest  part  of 
our  meeting  to  day,  ui  opposing  a  dull  drowsy  spirit,  which, 
through  unmerited  mercy  and  help,  I  vant|uished  towards  the 
close:  soon  after  which,  I  was  unexpectedly  called  upon  to 
sovmd  an  alarm  to  the  youth,  and  to  show  them  the  danger  of 
suffering  the  intruding  vanities  and  follies  of  the  world  to  steal 
away  their  aflfections  from  their  supreme  good,  and  blessed  Author 
of  their  being  and  well-being,  in  and  on  whom  they  ought  to  fix 
their  only  best  hope  and  trust,  w  ho  is  the  true  and  only  source  of 
all  felicity  and  blessedness  in  time  and  in  eternity. 

Second  day.  My  temporal  concerns  necessarily  engaged  my 
attention  to  day;  in  pursuing  of  which,  nothing  transpired  to 
interrupt  or  turn  the  mind  from  its  proper  centre. 
I  The  four  following  days  were  principally  occupied  in  attending 
our  quarterly  meeting,  held,  at  this  time,  in  N^w-York.  I  think 
it  was,  on  the  whole,  a  favoured  season.  The  canopy  of  the 
heavenly  Father's  care  was  sensibly  felt  to  overshadow  the  meet- 
ing in  its  several  sittings.  I  spread  before  the  meet  ing  for  disci- 
pline my  prospect  of  a  religious  visit  to  Friends'  and  others  in 
some  of  the  southern  states,  with  the  certificate  of  concurrence 


136 


.TOTTRNAL  OP 


fiom  our  last  montlily  meeting.  The  meeting  fully  united 
therewith,  and  I  was  left  at  liberty  to  pursue  the  journey  as  way 
should  open  therefor.  What  deep  obligations  devolve  upon  us, 
when  thus  liberated  by  our  friends,  and  separated  to  travel  in 
the  service  of  the  gospel,  that  we  are  careful,  in  no  case,  to  make 
the  gospel  chargeal)le  to  any,  nor  abuse  oiu-  power  in  it ;  hut 
that,  in  deep  humility  and  reverential  fear,  we  wait  for  the  put- 
ting forth  of  the  Shepherd  of  Israel,  and  know  him  to  go  before  : 
then  will  the  Lord's  cause  prosper  in  our  hands,  and  his  people 
be  edified  and  instructed,  and  we  comforted  in  oiu*  labours  of 
love,  to  the  glory  and  praise  of  his  right  excellent  name,  who  is 
over  all,  God  l)lessed  for  ever. 

Seventh  day.  Was  busied  to  day  in  my  farming  business, 
endeavovuing  to  get  all  my  temporal  concerns  properly  arranged, 
expecting  soon  to  proceed  on  the  visit  already  mentioned  ;  as  I 
consider  it  my  esi^ecial  duty,  as  much  as  in  me  Ues,  to  leave  all 
in  a  state  of  order  and  c|uiet,  so  that  nothing  may  remain  on  the 
mind  that  would  tend  to  interrupt  or  disturb  it,  while  travelling 
in  this  weiglity  service,  nor  that  any  should  have  cause  to  com- 
plain, whom  I  leave  behind. 

First  day.  Having  felt  my  mind  inclined  to  see  Friends  in 
their  meeting  at  Belhpage  before  I  left  home,  I  went  there  to 
day,  accompanied  by  my  Avife,  our  two  youngest  daughters,  arid 
a  sober  young  woman  of  our  neighbourhood.  Their  company 
was  pleasant,  and,  after  a  lime  of  deep  inward  travail  and  suffer- 
ing, I.  trust  the  season  was  profitable  and  edifying  to  a  number 
present.  How  often  are  the  living  baptized  for  the  dead,  in  order 
for  their  arising  ;  for  if  tlie  dead  are  not  raised,  j)reaching  is  vain. 

►Second  and  third  days.  Spent  in  preparing  my  business, 
looking  for  tlie  time  of  setting  out  on  my  intended  journey. 
May  1  be  ready  and  Avilling  when  the  time  comes,  Avithout  mur- 
muring or  complaining  ;  for,  as  I  trust  and  l>elieve  a  dispensa- 
tion of  the  gospel  is  committed  to  me,  avo  is  unto  mc  if  I  preach 
not  the  gospel. 

Foiuth  day.  Alas,  how  the  cares  of  the  world  intrude  on  the 
mind  and  engross  its  attention,  if  they  are  not  carefully  Avatched 
against  Avith  fervent  prayer  ! 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


137 


Fifth  day.  Attendccl  our  usual  meeting.  Found  it  necessary 
to  engage  against  a  dull  heavy  spirit,  that  seemed  very  prevalent 
in  the  meeting  :  but,  as  I  maintained  the  struggle,  I  was  favoiued 
with  a  good  degree  of  victory  tov^^ards  the  close,  when  a  ray  of 
light  broke  forth,  attended  with  peace  and  ciuietudc  of  mind,  an 
ample  reward  for  all  my  toil. 

Sixth  day.  I  endeavoured  to  spend  this  day  as  I  ought  to  do. 
Met  with  some  interruption  fiom  a  careless  neigliliour,  by  the 
trespass  of  his  unruly  cattle.  How  much  more  comfort  and 
satisfaction  would  neighbourhoods  enjoy,  if  all  honestly  endea- 
vomed  to  walk  uprightly,  agreeably  to  that  excellent  rule  left  us 
by  Jesus  Christ :  "  all  things  whatsoever  ye  would  tliat  men 
shoidd  do  to  you,  do  ye  even  so  to  them ;  for  this  is  tiie  law 
and  the  prophets." 

Seventh  day,  1st  of  .5th  month.  Still  pressing  after  a  more 
fuU  release  from  the  ^orld  and  its  cares,  endeavouring  to  redeem 
the  time,  because  the  days  are  still  evil,  or  attended  in  many 
respects,  with  much  evil.  The  alarm  of  war  is  heard  in  the 
land,  .and  much  contention  is  among  the  people.  Flee,  O  my 
soul,  to  thy  rock,  the  name  of  the  Lord  ;  for,  in  it  is  safety,  and 
a  sure  refuge  from  all  the  storms  and  tempests,  that  assail  poor 
mortals  in  passing  through  this  vale  of  tears,  and  state  of  trial 
and  probation. 

First  day.  Had  to  suffer  through  the  meeting  to-day.  Alas, 
how  oft  have  the  poor  ministers  to  be  baptized  for,  and  with,  the 
dead !  »■ 

Second  day.  Still  pressing  a  fter  a  release  from  my  worldly 
cares  ;  as  the  time  is  near  at  hand,  when  I  shall  proceed  on  my 
proposed  journey  to  the  south  and  west  on  my  good  Master's 
business,  I  hope,  in  the  way  he  is  pleased  to  lead. 

Third  day.  Felt  much  poverty  of  spirit  to-day,  although 
nothing  particular  has  occurred  either  on  the  right  hand  or  the 
left ;  therefore  I  feel,  in  a  good  degree,  a  peaceful  mind  which  is 
worthy  of  thanksgiving. 

Fourth  day.  Still  pressing  after  a  full  settlement  of  my  tem- 
poral concerns  that  I  may  be  in  a  state  of  readiness  to  piu  sue  my 
journey,  as  soon  as  the  way  opens. 

18 


138 


JOURNAL  OF 


Fifth  day.  Was  favoured,  towards  the  close  of  our  meeting 
to-day,  to  discharge  another  tlebt  of  love  and  care  to  my  friends, 
as  it  was  likely  to  be  the  last  opportunity  I  should  have  with 
them  before  I  proceeded  on  my  intended  journey ;  and,  through 
the  prevalence  of  gospel  love,  it  was  made  a  tendering  baptizing 
season  to  some,  and  we  parted  under  a  degree  of  the  uniting 
influence  of  it. 

Sixth  day.  Still  aiming  at  the  same  mark  of  readiness  and 
preparation  for  my  journey,  expecting  to  leave  home  to-morrow, 
and  proceed  therein,  if  the  cloud  is  removed  from  the  tabernacle, 
and  the  Ught  should  lead  the  way. 

Seventh  day,  8th  of  5th  month,  1813.  I  commenced  the 
journey  on  this  day,  after  a  precious  solemn  season  with  my 
family,  in  which  I  was  favoured,  in  fervent  supplication,  to 
recommend  them  to  (he  divine  protection  and  preserving  care 
of  the  Shepherd  of  Israel.  Under  a  thankful  sense  of  his  loving 
kindness  we  took  leave  of  each  other  in  much  affectionate  sym- 
pathy and  brokenness  of  spirit,  I  rode  to  New- York  with  a  peace- 
ful and  qvnet  mind.  My  kinsman  Isaac  Hicks,  ofWestbury, 
kindly  accompanied  mc  in  this  journey. 

First  day.  Attended  Friends'  meetings  there,  in  the  morning 
at  Pearl-street,  and  in  the  afternoon  at  Liberty -street.  They 
were  both  exercising  seasons,  and  I  hope  profitable  to  some,  as 
in  all  right  exercise  we  are  encouraged  to  believe  there  is  profit. 
After  these  opportunities,  and  a  favoured  season  in  a  family  of 
Friends,  the  heads  of  which  were  Elders,  I  felt  a  pretty  full 
release  from  the  city  at  present. 

Second  day.  Proceeded  on  our  journey  to  Newark,  where 
we  attended  a  meeting  appointed  for  us  at  the  third  hour. 
It  was  on  the  whole,  I  think,  a  favoured  season  ;  many  truths 
of  the  gospel  were  opened  to  the  people,  and  appeared  to  have 
a  good  degree  of  entrance  to  the  minds  of  some  present ;  al- 
though others  appeared  to  be  too  much  fettered  by  the  prejudice 
of  education  to  be  profited  by  them.  The  meeting  closed  m 
solemn  quiet ;  and  I  left  them  with  a  peaceftd  mind.  We  then 
rode  to  Rahway  and  lodged. 


KLIAS  HICKS. 


139 


Third  day.  This  afternoon  at  the  third  hour  we  attended  a 
meeting  previously  appointed  at  EUzabethtown.  Many  of  the 
most  respectable  inhabitants  attended,  among  whom  were  the 
governour  of  the  state  of  New- Jersey  and  his  wife  ;  and  a  very 
considerable  number  of  yoinig  people.  The  Lord,  who  is  a 
never-failing  helper  to  those  tliat  tmst  in  him,  was  near,  furnish- 
ing with  ability  to  preach  the  gospel  of  Ufe  and  salvation  to  the 
people,  in  the  clear  demonstration  of  the  spirit ;  and  with  a  power 
attending,  that  produced  great  brokemiess  of  heart  and  contrition 
of  spirit  among  them  ;  and  the  power  of  his  divine  love  was  felt 
to  spread  over  the  meeting  as  a  precious  canopy.  We  parted 
with  them  in  humiliation  and  deep  thankfulness  of  heai  t,  re- 
joicing that  his  loving  kindness  was  still  extended  to  his  back- 
sliding and  offending  creature  man. 

Fourth  and  fifth  days.  We  attended  Friends'  meetings  at 
Plainfield  and  Rahway. 

Sixth  day.  We  had  a  favoured  meeting  at  New  Brunswick 
among  the  inlialjitants  of  the  town.  Many  truths  of  the  gospel 
were  opened  to  their  consideration  ;  and  a  comfortable  solem- 
nity was  witnessed  to  spread  over  the  meeting. 

Seventh  day.  We  rode  to  Upper  Freehold,  intending  to  be  at 
Friends'  meeting  at  East  Branch  in  that  township  on  first  day. 
We  lodged  at  the  house  of  our  friend  George  Frost,  where  I 
had  lodged  before  in  my  way  through  these  parts,  about  twelve 
years  prior  to  this  time.  We  met  a  very  kind  reception  from  our 
said  friend  and  his  family ;  and  it  seemed  lil<e  a  fresh  renewal 
of  friendship  and  affection  between  us.  How  consohng  it  is  for 
the  weary  traveller  to  meet  with  kind  friends  !  it  is  as  a  brook  by 
the  way  in  a  time  of  drought. 

'  First  day.  We  attended  East  Branch  meeting  as  proposed. 
The  forepart  was  exercising,  for  want  of  a  lively  travail  among 
the  members ;  too  many  of  whom  seemed  in  a  dead,  lifeless 
state,  as  to  a  right  religious  concern.  This  makes  hard  labour 
for  the  living  exercised  members,  and  is  veiy  trying  to  those  who 
visit  them  in  the  semce  of  truth ;  yet  as  we  kept  up  the  travail 
for  truth's  arising,  and  patiently  abode  under  suffering,  a  degree 
of  light  broke  forth,  and  led  to  a  seasonable,  and  I  trust,  instruc- 


140 


JOURNAL  OP 


live  communication ;  in  which  I  found  vehef  and  peace  in  the 
labour,  which  I  consider  a  great  favour. 

Second  day.  \V  ere  at  Upper  Freehold  meeting.  It  was  a 
season  of  deep  suffering  in  the  forepart,  in  which  my  spirit  was 
deeply  baptized  witli,  and  for  the  dead ;  but  as  I  patiently  sub- 
mitted to  the  crucifyhig  operation  of  the  present  dispensation,  a 
degree  of  light  sprang  up,  and  in  it  I  was  led  to  view  the  declara- 
tion of  the  apostle  Paul,  that  "death  reigned  from  Adam  to 
Moses,"  and  to  show  to  the  people,  that  all  tiie  luiregenerate 
were  under  the  influence  and  power  of  the  same  death.  For  in 
Adam,  I  hat  is,  in  the  transgressing  state,  all  die.  And  that  it  is 
only  by  and  through  our  attention  being  turned  to  the  inward 
divine  law,  which  the  apostle  calls,  "  the  law  of  the  spirit  of  Ufa 
in  Christ  Jesus,"  and  our  yielding  full  obedience  thereunto,  that 
we  can  be  set  free  and  delivered  from  this  law  of  sin  and  death, 
which  was  typified  by  Israel's  deliverance,  from  the  bondage  of 
Pharaoh,  liy  a  full  and  implicit  obedience  to  the  outward  com- 
mands of  God,  througli  his  servant  Moses.  As  I  attended  care- 
fully to  tlie  opening,  truth  rose  into  victory,  and  administered 
cause  of  thanksgiving,  under  a  grate  fid  sense  of  the  continued 
mercy  and  loving  kindness  of  our  gracious  Creator  to  his  back- 
sliding creature  man. 

The  three  following  days  we  attended  meetings  at  Crosswicks, 
alias  Chesterfield,  Upper  Springfield,  and  a  meeting  called  the 
Mount.  These  were  all  favoured  meetings,  wherein  the  Lord's 
presence  and  power  were  manifested,  tendering  and  contriting 
many  hearts,  giving  tongue  and  utterance ;  and  through  which 
the  gospel  was  preached  in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  and 
with  a  power  attending,  which  carried  sharp  reproof  to  the  diso- 
bedient and  unfaithful,  strength  to  the  weak  and  feeble  minded, 
confirmation' and  encouragement  to  the  honest-hearted,  humJjle 
traveller  ;  and  mutually  rejoicing  the  sincere-hearted.  For  all 
these  favour  my  spirit  was  made  himibly  thankful  to  the  Shep- 
herd of  Israel,  to  whom  all  the  glory  and  praise  is  due,  for  his 
mercy  endureth  for  ever. 

Sixth  day.  Attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Old  Springfield.  It 
was  a  precious  baptizing  season,  the  Lord's  presence  and  power 


ELIAS  HICKS, 


141 


were  felt  to  spread  over  the  meeting-,  affecting  and  contriting 
many  present ;  and  comforting  and  encouraging  the  honest 
travellers  Zion-ward.  The  meeting  closed  muler  a  thankfid 
seDBe  of  divine  favoiu',  with  prayer  and  praise. 

Seventh  day.  We  were  at  Mansfield.  On  first  day  were  at 
Bordentown  in  the  morning,  and  at  Lower  Mansfield  in  the 
afternoon.  These  meetings  were  well  attended  and  very  solemn. 
The  two  last.  Friends  informod  nie  were  unusually  large.  Oh 
how  good  is  the  Lord,  and  greatly  to  be  praised  for  his  marvel- 
lous works,  and  his  never  failing  loving  kindness  to  the  children 
of  men. 

■  Second  day.  We  were  at  Burlington.  In  this  meeting  my 
mind  w^as  opened  largely  to  set  forth'  the  nature  and  design  of 
the  gospel  dispenstit  ion  ;  and  to  show,  that  as  none  had  ever 
been  perfect  in  it,  hut  the  man  Jesus  Christ,  we  had  not  a  right, 
as  his  professed  followers,  to  take  the  example  of  any  but  his 
own,  for  our  real  perfect  rule  of  hfe.  For  all  who  have  gone 
before  us  have  in  a  gicater  or  less  degree,  through  the  undue 
force  and  prejudice  of  education,  fallen  short  qf  the  jjerfect  rale 
left  us  in  his  example  and  precepts. 

I  also  showed  them  that  the  Christian  professors  in  the  varied 
ages  of  the  Church  had  very  much  maned  and  obstmcted  the 
work  of  reformation,  by  suffering  themselves  to  be  too  closely 
attached  to  their  several  particidar  leaders  :  and  have  therefore 
justly  thrown  themselves  open  to  the  censine  of  the  apostle ; 
wherein  he  blames  some  of  the  primitive  Christians  for  setting 
themselves  ojie  against  anotlicr,  by  the  partiaUty  each  had  for 
the  minister,  by  whom  he  had  been  l^rought  over  to  the  Chris- 
tian faith,  one  crying,  I  am  of  Paul,  and  I  of  Apollos,  and  I  of 
Cephas,  and  some  more  wise,  I  of  Christ ;  to  whose  example  all 
ought  to  have  looked,  and  not  turned  their  attention  so  much  to 
the  instruments,  by  whom  they  were  brought  to  Ijelieve  in  him. 
Although  many  of  our  worthy  predecessors  according  .to  their 
measure  of  light  endeavoured  faithfully  to  do  the  work  of  their 
day,  yet  few,  if  any  of  them,  had  been  so  entirely  emancipated 
from  the  undue  force  of  education,  as  to  see  clearly  through  the 
cloud  of  prejudice  produced  thereby  ;  and  therefore  were  ia  the 


142 


JOURNAL  OP 


practice  of  divers  things,  not  consistent  with  that  perfect  justice 
which  the  example  and  precepts  of  our  l-ord  call  for,  and  which 
are  in  full  unitson  with  the  perfect  righteousness  of  the  gospel. 
The  word  was  preached  in  a  large  searcliing  testimony,  I  trust 
through  divine  assistance,  in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  to 
the  comfort  and  encouragement  of  the  sincere  in  heart,  and  the 
peace  of  my  own  mind. 

Third  day.  Were  at  Rancocas.  The  meeting  was  solenm,  and 
the  Lord's  presence  was  felt  to  preside,  humbling  many  minds ; 
and  many  tiiiths  of  (he  gospel  were  in  an  instructive  manner 
spread  before  the  j)eople. 

Fourth  and  fifth  days.  We  attended  meetings  at  Mount 
Holly,  Upper  Evesham,  and  were  at  Easton  on  fifth  day  after- 
noon ;  these  were  all  favoured  meetings.  In  the  two  former, 
my  nrind  was  largely  opened  in  two  doctrinal  testimonies,  wherein 
the  design  and  end  of  all  the  shadows  of  the  law  were  clearly 
opened  ;  and  the  necessity  of  their  entire  abolishment  at  the 
death  and  resurrection  of  Christ  clearly  shown.  I  also  opened  to 
them,  that,  by  the  primitive  Christians  retaining  many  of  the 
shadows  of  the  law,  the  apostacy  broke  in  upon  the  Church,  and 
that  by  the  retention  of  some  of  the  same  shadows,  the  reforma- 
tion had  been,  and  is  still  greatly  retarded  :  and  will  irever 
advance  on  its  right  fomidation,  until  those  shadows  are  all  dis- 
carded and  done  away.  iVIy  mind  Avas  deeply  humbled,  under 
a  sense  of  the  Loi  d's  mercy. 

The  three  following  days  we  were  at  Lower  Evesham,  Crop- 
well,  Chester,  Westfield,  Haddonfield,  and  at  Newtown,  attending 
two  meetings  each  day.  After  the  latter  meeting,  on  first  day 
evening,  we  crossed  the  river  Delaware  to  Philadelphia.  In  those 
meetings  my  mind  was  deeply  humbled,  under  a  grateful  sense 
of  the  Lord's  continued  mercy  to  an  unworthy  people  ;  rejidered 
so  by  the  continued  disobedience  and  revoltuig  of  great  ninnbers, 
who  go  under  our  name,  not  only  among  the  youth,  but  with 
many  of  riper  age,  Avhose  experience  and  daily  observation  we 
might  reasonably  suppose,  had  they  endeav.oured  to  improve  by 
it,  would,  ere  now,  have  taught  them  better.  But  how  true  is 
that  saying  of  the  great  Master  :  "  If  therefore  the  light  that  is 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


143 


in  thee  be  darkness,  how  great  is  that  darkness."  This  has 
fallen  to  the  lot  of  those,  by  turning  their-  backs  upon  the  true 
light,  and  adhering  to  their-  own  carnal  reasonings  and  fleshly 
consultations,  whereby  they  have  teen  left  hke  Balaam,  through 
his  covetousness,  to  justify  themselves  in  many  things,  which  the 
true  light  in  them,  had  they  been  obedient  to  its  manifestations, 
would  not  have  approved.  Therefore  these  are  left- as  a  reward 
of  their  disobedience  to  believe  a  lie  to  their  own  confusion. 

My  mind  was  largely  opened  in  these  meetings,  not  only  to 
commemorate  the  Lord's  gracious  dealings  with  the  children  of 
men  ;  but  likewise  to  set  forth  and  open  to  the  several  auditories 
the  sidttle  workings  and  varied  transformations  of  that  diabolical 
spirit,  which  Ues  in  wait  to  deceive  and  counteract  the  gracious 
designs  of  heaven  among  the  children  of  men.  And  under  a 
renewed  sense  of  the  Lord's  continued  mercy,  my  spirit  was  led 
to  exclaim,  as  did  one  formerly :  "  Great  and  marv^ellous  are  thy 
works.  Lord  God  Almighty ;  just  and  true  are  all  thy  ways, 
thou  King  of  saints.". 

The  follow  ing  week  we  spent  in  tlie  city,  except  on  seventh 
day  we  rode  out  and  attended  two  meetings ;  one  in  the  morning 
at  Frankford,  and  the  other  at  Germantowii,  at  five  in  the  after- 
noon. These  were  botli  favoured  seasons.  We  then  returned 
in  the  evening  to  Philadelphia ;  and  the  next  day  being  the  first 
of  the  week,  and  the  6th  of  6th  month,  were  at  Friends'  meeting 
at  Arch-street  in  the  morning,  and  at  the  North  meeting  in  the 
afternoon.  Some  previous  notice  having  been  given  of  my  in- 
tention of  attending  them,  they  were  unusually  large ;  and  many 
had  to  go  away  for  want  of  room.  It  was  supposed  there  were 
three  thousand  people  at  the  beginning  of  the  meeting,  and 
toward  the  close  many  more  than  the  rooms  could  contain. 
Through  the  marvellous  condescension  and  loving  kindness  of 
our  gracious  God,  my  mind  was  strengthened  and  cjualified  to 
preach  the  gospel  of  peace  and  salvation  to  the  people,  in  the 
demonstration  of  the  spirit,  and  with  a  power  attending,  that 
brought  home  the  doctrine,  to  the  hiunbling  conviction  of  many 
minds.  In  the  first  I  was  engaged  to  bear  testimony  to  the 
excellency  of  a  life  of  strict  and  impartial  justice  and  righteous- 


144 


JOURNAL  OP 


ness,  as  the  only  riglit  foundation  of  every  real  religious  and 
moral  virtue ;  and  without  which  no  true  virtue  could  pos^sibly 
exist.  The  commimication  comprehended  much  salutary  cau- 
tion, reproof  and  encouragement,  suited  to  the  varied  states  pre- 
sent; luidor  a  sense  of  which  my  mind  was  deeply  humbled,  and 
had  gratefully  to  acknowledge,  "  this  is  the  Lord's  doings,  and 
marvellous  iiimine  eyes."  The  latter  was  like^vise  a  favoured  sea- 
son, wherein  many  truths  of  the  gospel  were  opened  to  the  people, 
tending  to  leail  their  minds  off  from  all  dependence  on  traditional 
religion  and  worship ;  and  to  gather  them  home  to  the  eternal 
substance  in  themselves,  Christ,  the  hope  of  glory  and  liglit  of 
the  world ;  by  tlie  influence  of  whose  light  and  s]jirit,  we  only 
can  be  cnableti  to  ol)tain  victory  over  the  Avorld  and  its  spirit, 
and  become  qualihed  to  worshif)  the  Father  in  spirit  and  in 
truth. 

The  7th  we  left  Philadelphia.  In  the  course  of  this  week 
and  the  next  first  da}^,  we  attemled  eleven  meetings  in  the  follow- 
ing order,  previous  notice  having  gone  forward.  On  second  day 
at  Darl)y;  tliird  day  at  Havcrford  in  the  morning,  and  fit  Merion 
at  the  fifth  hour  in  the  afternoon ;  fourth  day  at  the  Valley ; 
fifth  day  at  Radnor,  which  was  their  monthly  meeting ;  sixth 
day  at  Newtowti  in  the  morning,  and  at  Springfickl  in  the  after-  - 
noon ;  seventh  day  at  Middletown  in  the  morning,  and  at  Pro- 
vidence in  the  afternoon ;  first  day  at  Chester  in  the  morning,  and 
at  Chichester  in  the  afternoon.  And  although  I  vras  taken 
very  unwell  on  (bird  day  afternoon,  before  the  tliird  meeting  as 
above  arranged,  and  continued  so  through  the  week,  and  until 
the  last  meeting ;  insomuch  that  for  several  days  I  coidd  tiike 
scarcely  any  nourishment,  my  stomach  loathing  all  food  ;  yet  to 
my  huml)ling'  admiration,  I  was  strengthened  to  go  througli  the 
service  of  these  meetings,  which  in  each  was  arduous  and  exten- 
sive. At  the  close  of  some  of  them  my  strength  was  so  exliausted, 
being  wet  from  head  to  foot  with  extreme  sweating,  that  it 
seemed  to  me  after  divers  of  those  exercising  seasons,  almost 
impossiV»le  for  me  to  reach  the  next;  Init  that  which  is  impossible 
to  man,  we  often  find  easy  to  the  great  Helper  of  his  people.  As 
my  care  was  wholly  east  upon  Him,  he  graciously  accompanied, 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


145 


by  his  holy  presence,  from  meeting  to  meeting.  When  I  first 
sat  down  in  many  of  those  meetings,  the  force  of  my  complaint 
seemed  to  absorb  all  my  strength  both  of  body  and  mind  ;  yet  as 
1  endeavoured  to  centre  in  quiet,  I  seldom  sat  long  before  the 
light  sprang  up,  and  dispelled  all  the  darkness,  and  opened  doc- 
trine new  and  old  ;  and  strengthened  to  communicate  in  a  way 
of  clear  demonstration.  The  honest-hearted  were  strengthened 
and  instructed,  and  conviction  and  reproof  brought  home  to  the 
deUnquent,  and  a  visitation  of  entreaty  and  love  extended  to  the 
beloved  young  people,  whose  minds  were  not  yet  hardened  in 
vice ;  showing  them,  what  great  and  everlasting  benefits  and 
blessings  would  redound  to  them,  by  an  early  dedication  of  their 
hearts  to  the  Lord.  My  mind  at  the  close  of  these  large  solemn 
meetings,  (for  many  were  very  large,  more  than  the  houses  could 
contain,)  was  generally  centered  in  perfect  peace,  wherein  I  was 
led  to  contemplate  the  Lord's  marvellous  loving  kindness  to  me  a 
poor  unworthy  creature,  and  his  wonderful  works  in  mercy  to 
the  children  of  men  ;  waiting  in  long  forbearance  for  their  return, 
and  continuing  his  call  to  them  by  his  spirit,  through  his  ser- 
vants and  messengers,  rising  up  early  and  sending  them,  that 
no  means  should  be  left  untried  for  tlieir  recovery  and  reconcilia- 
tion.   O,  what  shall  we  render  to  the  Lord  for  all  his  benefits  ! 

Having  been  very  unwell,  as  before  observed,  most  of  the  last 
week,  I  found  it  necessaiy  to  lay  by  a  day  or  two,  which  we  did 
at  the  house  of  our  friend  John  Talbot.  With  a  little  rest  I  soon 
found  myself  better,  and  being  desirous  to  improve  the  time,  we 
again  proceeded.  On  fourth  day,  the  16th  of  the  ^lonth,  we 
were  at  Concord  meeting,  at  Wilmington  on  fifth  day.  Centre  on 
sixth  day,  Hockesson  on  seventh  day,  and  at  Kennet  on  first 
day.  I  was  helped  to  get  through  the  service  of  these  meetings 
to  my  own  satisfaction  and  peace  of  mind ;  although  some  of 
them  were  very  trying  and  exercising,  by  the  unfaithfulness  and 
great  want  of  a  right  concern  and  zeal,  for  the  support  and 
maintenance  of  our  Christian  testimonies,  which  in  some  families 
were  very  much  neglected  and  let  fall.  I  was  led  forth  generally 
in  those  meetings,  in  close  searching  testimonies,  tending  to 
arouse  friends  from  their  bed  of  ease  and  cainal  security;  brought 

19 


146 


JOURNAL  OF 


upon  them  by  an  inordinate  love  of  the  world,  and  an  increase  of 
temporal  blessings  ;  in  which  their  principal  enjoyments  were  too 
much  centered,  loving  the  gifts  and  forgetting  the  Giver.  I 
labouretl  fervently  among  them,  especially  in  the  leist  meeting, 
wherein  my  mind  was  largely  opened  to  unfold  to  the  audience 
many  of  the  deep  mysteries  of  the  gospel  state,  makmg  them 
plain  and  easy  to  be  understood  by  the  most  ignorant,  whose 
minds  were  in  any  degree  turned  to  inquire  the  way  to  Zion. 
It  was  a  season  in  which  the  Lord's  power  was  manifested  m  an 
eminent  degree,  brealdng  down  and  contriting  many  hearts,  and. 
truth  appeared  to  reign  triumphantlj-  over  all,  to  the  praise  of 
his  grace  who  is  God,  blessed  for  ever. 

The  following  week  we  attended  meetings  at  Birmingham, 
Willistown,  Goshen,  Westchester,  Bradford  and  Marlborough. 
These  were  mostly  pretty  full  meetmgs,  and  generally  favoured 
and  satisfactory.  In  some  of  them,  as  in  many  foregoing  oppor- 
tunities, the  Lord's  power  was  eiuinently  exalted,  and  set  above, 
and  over,  all  errour  and  untruth. 

On  first  day,  the  27th  of  the  month,  we  attended  two  very 
large  meetings.  One  in  the  morning  at  London  Grove,  and 
the  other  in  the  afternoon  at  New  Garden.  In  both  of  these 
meetings,  my  mind,  I  tnist,  was  opened  by  that  divine  key, 
Avhich,  when  it  opens,  none  can  shut,  and  when  it  shuts,  none 
can  open.  I  was  strengthened  to  declare  largely  of  the  things 
of  God,  and  the  way  to  eternal  life ;  to  the  satisfaction  and  peace 
of  my  own  mind  ;  and  I  trust  to  the  edification  and  instruction, 
as  well  as ^onviction  and  reproof,  of  many  present ;'  the  spirit 
assisting  to  divide  the  word  severally  to  every  one,  accordmg  to 
the  necessity  of  their  different  states.  It  was  a  day  thankfiilly 
to  be  remembered. 

In  the  comse  of  this  week  we  attended  meetings  at  West 
Grove,  East  and  West  Nottingham,  Eastland,  and  Little  Britaui. 
These  were  all  satisfactory  seasons ;  that  at  East  Nottmgham 
particularly,  was  a  heart-searching  opportunity,  wherein  tmth 
was  raised  powerfully  into  dominion  over  all.  Many  were  broken 
and  contrited,  and  a  number  wept  freely  for  a  considerable  time  : 
surely  it  was  the  Lord's  doing,  and  marvellous  in  our  eyes.  On 


RLIAS  HICKS. 


ur 


seventh  day  we  crossed  the  river  Susquehannah,  and  rode  into 
the  neighbourhood  of  Deer  Creek ;  and  attended  the  meeting 
there  on  first  day.  This  also  proved  a  very  precious  meeting, 
wherein  the  Lord's  power  was  eminently  manifested  ;  and  every 
mind  appeared  to  be  humbled  by  its  blessed  influence.  The 
meeting  ended  with  solemn  supplication.  The  two  following 
days,  we  attended  meetings  at  Little  Falls  and  Gunpowder. 
After  the  latter  meeting,  we  rode  to  Baltimore  ;  and  the  two  fol- 
lowing days,  attended.  Friends'  meetings  there  for  the  Western 
and  Eastern  Districts,  as  they  came  in  course.  At  the  close  of 
each,  their  monthly  meetings  were  held,  which  were  exercising 
seasons,  but  ended  to  pretty  good  satisfaction.  There  appeared 
to  be  a  concerned  remnant  in  each  meeting,  through  whose  care 
the  discipline  appeared  to  be  pretty  well  supported.  After  the 
latter,  we  left  the  city  and  rode  to  Elk  Ridge,  to  attend  a  meeting 
appointed  for  us  there  the  next  day,  the  sixth  of  the  week  ;  which 
was  a  satisfactory  opportunity.  The  day  after,  we  attended 
Indian  Spring  meeting.  It  was  a  solemn,  and  I  trust  profitable 
season  to  some:  may  it  remain  with  them  as  bread  cast  upon 
the  waters,  that  may  be  found  after  many  days. 

After  this  meeting,  we  rode  to  the  city  of  Washington  ;  and 
the  next  day,  being  the  first  of  the  week,  and  the  11th  of  7th 
month,  we  attended  a  meeting  there  in  the  morning;  and  in  the 
afternoon  one  at  Alexandria.  These  were  both  very  hard  trying 
meetings  ;  the  people  appeared  very  destitute  of  real  religious 
engagement,  their  minds  being  so  swallowed  up  in  their  political 
controversies,  and  other  worldly  concerns,  that  there  seemed  to 
be  very  little  room  in  their  thoughts  for  any  thing  else.  I  felt 
but  little  satisfaction  in  these  meetings,  except  a  consciousness  of 
having  done  my  duty,  in  laying  before  them,  in  a  plain  manner, 
divers  truths  necessary  for  them  to  be  in  the  practice  of,  and 
without  which  they  could  not  be  real  Christians,  nor  obtam  an 
inheritance  in  the  kingdom  of  heaven. 

The  three  following  days  we  attended  meetings  at  George- 
town, Sandy  Spring,  and  Elk  Ridge.  We  had  been  at  the  latter 
place  the  week  before  on  sixtli  day.  These  were  seasons  of 
favour :  many  tmths  of  the  gospel  were,  I  trust,  clearly  opened 


148 


JOtiRNAI.  OF 


to  the  people,  accompanied  with  right  authority,  humbhng  many 
minds,  and  fnith  reigned  over  all.  After  the  last  meeting,  we 
rode  to  Baltimore  that  afternoon,  and  attended  a  meeting  pre- 
viously appointed  for  us  at  the  fifth  hour ;  and  the  next  day 
Friends'  meeting  in  the  Eastern  District  was  held,  and  public 
notice  was  given  of  our  intention  of  attending  it.  These  were 
both  full  meetings,  in  which  I  was  led  forth  in  two  large  doc- 
trinal testimonies,  I  trust,  to  the  edification  and  comfort  of  many 
minds. 

After  this  I  felt  easy  and  clear  to  leave  the  city.  We  proceeded 
that  afternoon  about  fourteen  miles  on  our  way  towards  Little 
York,  in  Pennsylvania ;  where  we  arrived  the  next  day  a  little 
before  evening.  On  seventh  day  we  had  a  comfortable  instruc- 
tive meeting  there.  We  then  rode  to  Coliunbia,  crossing  the 
river  Susquehannah  in  our  way.  The  next  day  being  first  day, 
we  attended  Friends'  meeting  there.  It  was  large  for  that  place, 
more  came  than  the  house  could  contain  ;  and  Avas  a  favoured 
season  ;  the  Lord's  power  was  manifest,  and  truth  reigned  over 
all ;  and  I  was  made  to  rejoice,  under  an  humbhng  sense  of  his 
continued  mere}'  and  gracious  assistance  from  day  to  day ; 
wherein  we  had  cause  often  to  set  up  om  Ebenezer,  and  say,  ui 
the  language  of  one  formerly,  "  hitherto  hath  the  Lord  helped 
us." 

The  three  following  days,  we  attended  meetings  at  Lampeter, 
Sadsbury,  and  Doe  Run.  In  these,  our  gracious  helper,  whom 
we  waited  upon,  and  tnisted  in,  manifested  himself  to  be  a  God 
near  at  hand,  and  a  present  helper  in  every  needful  time  ; 
and  was  not  only  mouth  and  wisdom,  tongue  and  utterance; 
but  likewise  sealed  the  truths  communicated  by  the  attendant 
evidence  of  his  own  power,  humbling  and  contriting  jiiany 
hearts  and  bringing  aU  under  subjection  to  the  authority  of  truth  ; 
so  that  I  had  often  in  deep  thankfulness  of  heart,  to  query  like 
David :  "  What  shall  I  render  unto  the  Lord  for  all  his  benefits 
towards  me." 

We  then  proceeded,  attending  meetings  at  r'allowfield.  East 
Cain,  Downingstown  ;  and  on  first  day,  the  25th  of  7th  month, 
were  at  Uwchlan  meeting.    It  was,  I  trust,  a  profitable  instructive 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


149 


season,  as  were  also  the  three  foregoing ;  and  I  found  peace  in 
my  labours,  which  I  esteem  above  all. 

On  second  day  we  crossed  the  river  Schuylkill,  in  our  way  to 
Plymouth ;  where,  by  previous  notice,  we  had  a  meeting  appointed 
at  the  fourth  hour  in  the  afternoon,  which  \vc  accordingly  at- 
tended. The  next  day  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Abing- 
ton.  These  were  both  large  meetings,  in  which  the  Lord's 
power  was  felt  to  preside.  The  latter  especially  was  a  very 
comfortable  satisfactory  meeting,  wherein  many  truths  of  the 
gospel  were  opened  to  the  people's  consideration,  and  they  pressed 
to  an  engagement  of  mind  to  realize  them  in  their  own  experi- 
ence ;  and  were  shown  the  great  and  singular  advantage  and 
benefits,  that  would  most  certainly  result  to  them  and  to  society, 
in  their  so  doing.  The  Lord's  power  was  manifest,  and  truth 
reigned  over  all  opposition. 

The  four  following  days  we  were  at  Byberiy,  Middletown, 
Bristol,  and  the  Falls.  These  were  large  meetings,  wherein, 
through  gracious  assislance,  my  mind  was  strengthened  to  labour 
largely  in  the  gospel ;  endeavouring,  by  plain  and  conclusive 
arguments,  drawn  from  scripture  testimony  and  tlieir  own  expe- 
rience, to  gather  the  minds  and  attention  of  the  people,  from 
every  non-essential  and.  false  trust,  home  to  the  sure  foundation, 
the  elect  precious  corner  stone,  which  is  Christ  in  thein,  the  hope 
of  glory.  These  were  solemn  seasons,  wherein  the  people's 
minds  were  generally  humbled,  the  honest-heaited  comforted,  the 
youth  encotuaged  and  instructed,  and  the  lukewarm  and  refrac- 
tory cautioned  and  rqjroved.  The  Lord's  power  was  exalted 
over  all,  rejoicing  the  sincere-hearted,  and  giving  peace  to  my 
own  mind. 

The  next  day  being  first  day,  and  1st  of  8th  month,  we 
attended  Trenton  meeting  in  the  morning,  and  were  at  Stony 
Brook  at  five  in  the  afternoon.  The  meeting  at  Trenton  was 
considered  to  be  the  largest  that  had  ever  been  held  in  that  place. 
It  was  a  favoured  precious  meeting,  wherein  the  Lord's  power 
was  eminently  manifest ;  and  my  spirit  was  made  to  rejoice 
and  joy  in  the  God  of  my  salvation,  who  had  made  bare  his  arm 
of  divine  sufficiency ;  and  as  I  trasted  in  him,  carried  me  through, 


150 


JOURNAL  OF 


and  over,  every  trial  and  tribulation,  that  attended  in  the  course 
of  this  journey  ;  enabling  me  to  labour  faithfully  in  the  work  of 
the  gospel,  I  trust  to  the  exaltation  of  his  own  righteous  cause, 
and  to  the  peace  and  comfort  of  my  own  mind. 

These  meetings  closed  my  visit  in  those  parts.  We  then  pro- 
ceeded directly  to  New- York,  where  we  arrived  on  third  day  ; 
and  as  Friends'  monthly  meeting  there  was  to  be  held  the  next 
day,  we  concluded  to  stay  and  attend  it.  I  then  rode  home  and 
found  my  family  well,  for  which  favour,  together  with  the  Lord  s 
other  multiplied  mercies  and  blessings,  conferred  in  the  course  of 
my  pilgrimage  through  this  vale  of  tears,  inspire  my  heart  with 
gratitude  and  thanksgiving  to  the  great  and  blessed  Author  of 
my  being  and  well-being,  "  who  is  over  all,  God  blessed  for 
ever." 

Fifth  day,  5th  of  8th  month,  1813.  On  this,  and  the  two  fol- 
lowing days,  I  made  preparations  for  again  entering  into  the 
necessary  cares  of  my  family. 

First  day.  After  a  pretty  close  exercise  in  silence  in  our  meet- 
ing to-day,  I  was  led  to  call  Friends'  attention  to  more  strict 
watchfulness  and  circumspection,  and  to  show  the  necessity  of 
advancing  in  the  work  of  righteousness,  and  not  to  continue  any 
longer  at  ease  in  a  formal  customary  way,  which  is  sm"e  to  pro- 
duce dwarfishness  and  death,  not  only  to  individuals,  but  also 
languor  and  dulness  in  meetings,  greatly  distressing  to  the 
living  exercised  members. 

The  following  week  was  spent  in  my  common  vocation  as  a 
farmer ;  except  that  on  seventh  day,  I  went  to  Setauket,  about 
thirty  miles,  to  visit  a  sick  Friend,  who  had  lately  been  received 
a  member.  We  had  a  meeting  with  her  and  some  of  her  neigh- 
bours on  fust  day,  after  which  I  returned  home  that  evening. 

Second,  third,  and  fomth  days,  passed,  as  usual,  in  a  peaceful 
attention  to  my  ordinary  vocations. 

Fifth  day.  At  meeting  to  day  my  mind  was  solemnly  hum- 
bled in  a  fresh  commemoration  of  the  gracious  dealings  of  our 
heavenly  Father  towards  the  workmanship  of  his  holy  hand, 
especially  to  his  revolting  and  backsliding  creature  man  ;  whom, 
in  great  mercy,  he  is  visiting  and  revisiting  in  the  midst  of  his 


ELIAS  HICKS, 


181 


iniquities,  iiivitiiig  him  in  loving  kindness  to  repent  and  return, 
that  he  may  bring  back  Iris  soul  from  the  pit,  and  be  enlightened 
with  the  Ught  of  the  living. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Was  occupied  with  my  temporal 
concerns,  which  were  trying,  through  indisposition  of  body,  and 
much  poverty  of  mind. 

First  day.  I  attended  our  meeting  to-day,  not  so  much  with 
an  expectation  of  comfort,  as  from  a  sense  of  real  duty,  as  my 
bodily  indisposition  and  poverty  of  spirit  still  continued  ;  never- 
theless, my  mind,  soon  after  I  took  my  seat,  was  opened  into  a 
view  of  the  great  hurt  man  has  sustained  by  suffering  himself  to 
be  led  and  governed  by  his  external  senses.  It  is  through  these 
avenues  that  he  is  principally  exposed  to  temptation  in  this  pro- 
bationary state.  And  had  he  watchfully  attended  to  the  internal 
sense  and  voice  of  God  to  his  soul,  which  his  dependent  state 
justly  required  of  him,  the  tempter  would  have  found  no  more 
place  in  him,  than  he  did  in  the  blessed  Jesus.  Hence  the  way 
of  our  return  lies  open  before  us,  through  the  giace  of  God  or 
Comforter,  by  which  the  internal  sense  of  the  soul  is  again  arrested, 
and  strict  obedience  to  its  dictates  required  ;  and  if  yielded  to  in 
uprightness  and  faithful  submission,  the  external  senses  are 
thereby  subjected  and  regulated,  and  every  undue  desire  and 
passion  subdued,  and  the  creature  returns  a  willing  subject  to  the 
Creator,  and  primitive  harmony  is  restored.  I  had  largely  to 
communicate  on  this  subject,  and  to  sliow  to  the  auditory  how 
wonderfully  gracious  and  merciful  the  Lord  is,  who  hi  longsuffer- 
ing  and  loving  kindness  is  dispensing  to  every  state,  according  to 
its  necessities,  not  suffering  even  a  sparrow  to  fall  without  his 
heavenly  notice. 

The  rest  of  this  week  was  spent  in  my  ordinary  vocations. 
My  farming  business  was  very  pressing,  and  it  being  difficult  to 
procure  suitable  assistance,  my  mind  was  over-burdened  with 
care,  which  seldom  fails  of  producing  leanness  of  spuit  in  a  lesser 
or  greater  degree. 

First  day,  the  29th  of  8th  month.  Attended  our  meeting  in 
silence.  Oh  !  what  a  precious  enjoyment  to  know  both  soul 
and  botly  in  humble  silence,  prostrated  at  the  throne  of  grace. 


152 


JOURNAL  OP 


Second  day.  Had  invitations  to  attend  the  funerals  of  two 
deceased  women  Friends  on  the  day  following.  One  of  them 
had  been  lately,  at  her  request,  received  into  membership  by  our 
monthly  meeting,  but  was  never  able  to  attend,  she  hving  in 
the  town  of  Setauket,  far  distant  from  Friends.  We  had  a  meet- 
ing at  her  funeral  agreeably  to  her  request.  It  was  a  large 
solemn  one.  A  number  of  the  inhabitants  of  the  town  attended, 
and  many,  although  generally  strangers  to  us,  were  glad  of  the 
opportunity,  and  appeared  well  affected  therewith.  The  rest  of 
this  week  was  spent  about  home  in  my  usual  avocations. 

First  day,  the  .5tli  of  9(h  month.  Attended  the  indulged 
meeting  at  Jerusalem,  which,  in  the  main,  I  think  was  a  favoured 
season,  although  somcAvhat  hurt  in  the  forepart  by  an  unsavoury 
appearance  in  the  ministry. 

Second,  third,  and  fourth  days.  Was  occupied  in  attending 
to  my  farming  busmess,  which,  for  want  of  suitable,  faithful 
labourers,  is  often  attended  Avith  much  care,  and  too  much  bodily 
labour  for  my  time  of  life,  but  which  cannot  well  be  avoided 
without  my  business  suffering. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  preparative  meeting,  at  which  our 
overseers  brought  forward  information  of  one  of  our  members 
having  through  imwatchfulness  and  want  of  faithful  attention 
to  the  witness  of  truth  in  his  own  mind,  given  way  repeatedly 
to  use  strong  drink  to  excess.  This  information  affected  my 
mind  in  degree,  both  with  joy  and  sorrow.  I  was  glad,  because 
from  my  knowledge  of  the  case,  I  fully  believed  it  had  been  too 
long  procrastinated,  not  only  to  the  hurt  and  loss  of  the  indi- 
vidual ;  ))ut  also,  had  brought  reproach  upon  tlie  society,  and 
wounded  the  noble  cause  we  are  engaged  to  espouse.  And  it 
was  cause  of  real  sorrow,  when  I  was  brought  to  reflect  on  the 
distressed  state  of  the  individual,  and  the  great  affliction  it  must 
necessarily  produce  to  his  wife  and  children,  and  neai"  connex- 
ions. O  how  necessary  to  keep  up  a  steady  watch  and  warfare, 
against  this  sore  evil  which  destroys  so  many  tens  of  thousands 
of  the  children  of  men,  both  in  soul  and  body. 

A  few  following  days  were  spent  in  much  bodily  pain  from  a 
supposed  rheumatic  complaint  in  one  of  my  limbs.  O  how  needful 


KLIAS  HICKS. 


158 


a  virtue  is  patience  in  seasons  of  affliction,  to  keep  as  from  un- 
grateful niurmiirings  ;  by  which  men  and  women  often  greatly 
ofl'end  their  gracious  and  beneficent  Creator,  who  designs  nothing 
but  good  to  his  creature  man  in  all  the  varied  dispensations  of 
his  divine  providence. 

First  day.  At  our  meeting  to-day,  I  was  led  to  show  to  the 
people  the  great  harm  and  loss  neighbourhoods,  as  well  as  the 
community  at  large,  sustain  for  want  of  a  careful  submission  to 
the  laws,  in  all  points  where  they  do  not  interfere  with  con- 
science ;  and  that  those  who  from  their  licentious  and  inunoral 
pursuits,  Avere  often  transgressing  against  the  moral  precepts  of 
the  law,  were  not  worthy  of  living  in  a  free  country,  while  viola- 
ting the  civil  policy  thereof  merely  to  gratify  their  own,  creaturely 
and  selfish  inclinations.  An  houest  and  faithful  attention  to 
the  moral  law  of  the  country  we  live  in,  will,  in  a  certain  degree, 
(as  the  apostle  expressed  in  allusion  to  the  law  of  Moses,)  be  as 
a  schoolmaster  to  lead  to  Christ.  He  ordy  who  is  faithful  in  the 
unrighteous  mammon,  is  likely  to  make  any  proficiency  in 
obtaining  the  true  riches. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  monthly  meeting ;  at  the  first  sit- 
ting of  which,  my  mind  was  opened  into  a  clear  view  of  the 
necessity  of  our  coming  to  experience  a  resurrection  from  a  state 
of  spiritual  death,  to  a  renewal  of  spiritual  life,  through  the  resur- 
rection of  Christ,  by  his  life  and  power  in  us;  as  nothing  short 
of  that  can  give  full  and  satisfactory  evidence  of  his,  and  our 
resurrection,  from  the  dead.  On  this  uiternal  testimony  our 
whole  salvation  depends ;  and  we  know  and  feel,  that  because 
he  lives  we  live  also ;  and  the  life  that  we  now  live,  is  by  faith 
in  the  Son  of  God,  hence  we  come  to  know  in  our  own  expe- 
rience what  Paul  meant  when  he  thus  expressed  himself:  "my 
little  children,  of  whom  I  travail  in  birth  again  until  Christ  be 
formed  in  you."  Christ  formed  in  us  is  the  sum  and  sub- 
stance of  the  gospel  state. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Spent  in  manual  labour,  a  reasona- 
l)le  portion  of  which  I  consider  my  duty  and  delight ;  and  the 
more  my  delight,  because  I  esteem  it  my  reasonal)le  and  Chris- 
tian service :  and  as  I  also  abhor  idleness  and  sloth. 


154 


JOURNAL  OF 


First  day.  Sat  our  meeting  in  silence  under  a  pretty  long 
testimony  of  a  ministering  Friend  on  a  visit  to  us,  who  intro- 
duced his  communication  with  the  following  saying  of  Christ : 
"  Except  ye  eat  my  flesh  and  drink  my  blood,  ye  have  no  life  in 
you;  for  my  flesh  is  meat  indeed,  and  my  blood  is  drink  indeed:" 
and  to  show  that  it  was  to  be  spiritually  understood  and  inter- 
nally received,  he  ftuther  added :  "  The  words  that  I  say  unto 
you,  they  are  spirit  ,  and  they  are  life."  An  excellent  subject 
indeed,  and  while  he  kept  to  his  text  and  the  subject,  it  seemed 
lively;  but  he  after  a  time  departed  from  it,  and  the  life,  I  thought, 
very  much  departed  with  it.  How  very  necessary  it  is  for 
ministers  to  keep  a  steady  eye  to  the  openings  of  truth,  and  not 
sufTer  any  premature  birth  to  rise  up  and  get  in  and  scatter  their 
attention.  For  want  of  this  care,  I  have  often  thought  many  good 
openings  have  been  much  lost,  and  the  work  thereby  marred. 

First  day,  the  10th  of  10th  month.  Alas !  how  fleeting  is 
time  :  three  weeks  have  elapsed  since  my  last  note ;  in  the  course 
of  wliich  I  have  attended  two  funerals.  Take  care,  oh  my  soul ! 
and  do  not  grow  careless  and  forgetful  when  drawing  near  to 
the  eve  of  life ;  lest  the  world  and  its  cares  get  in  and  choke  the 
bubblings  of  the  celestial  spring,  through  the  abundant  cumber 
that  seems  necessarily  attendant  on  my  present  state  in  striving 
to  help  and  comfort  others. 

Fiist  day,  the  17th  of  10th  month.  Passed  the  last  week 
principally  in  attending  to  my  outward  avocations,  except  attend- 
ing the  funeral  of  a  young  man,  where  we  had  a  solemn  oppor- 
tunity. I  was  exercised  publicly  to  set  forth  the  necessity  and 
great  propriety  of  an  early  and  timely  preparation  for  death ;  and 
to  show  to  the  people  the  way  and  means  by  which  it  only  can 
be  effected;  founded  on  the  declaration  of  the  apostle  Paul,  where 
he  asserts  that,  "  not  by  works  of  righteousness  which  we  have 
done,  but  according  to  his  mercy  he  saved  us,  by  the  washing  of 
regeneration,  and  renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost."  The  opportunity 
closed  with  comfort  and  peace  of  mind,  which  is  the  true  crown 
of  all. 

I  sat  our  meeting  to-day  in  silence,  feeling  nothing  to  exercise 
my  mind  in  a  communicative  way. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


155 


Seventh  day.  Spent  this  week  mostly  in  the  busy  round  of 
outward  cares,  in  my  temporal  concerns ;  except  attending  our 
monthly  meeting  on  fifth  day,  and  our  select  meeting  for  Minis- 
ters and  Elders  on  sixth  day.  In  both  of  these  my  mind  was 
exercised  on  account  of  the  apparent  languor  respecting  the  right 
management  and  want  of  firmness  in  the  execution  of  our  dis- 
cipline, even  in  Ministers  and  Elders;  by  which  reason  the  society 
were  very  much  enveloped  in  a  state  of  weakness. 

First  day.  Felt  my  mind  clothed  with  great  weakness,  and 
a  feeling  sense  of  my  own  insufficiency,  while  sitting  in  our 
meeting  to-day  ;  nevertheless,  I  was  led  to  view  in  prospect  and 
contemplation,  the  great  and  essential  advantages  which  result  to 
individuals,  and  society  in  general,  by  a  strict  and  steady 
attendance  of  religious  meetings,  from  a  real  sense  of  duty ;  as 
there  is  scarcely  any  thing  in  the  outward  conduct  of  men  and 
women,  which  more  fully  denotes  a  mind  fixed  on  God  its 
maker  for  support  and  coimtenance,  while  passing  through  the 
changes  and  vicissitudes  of  this  mortal  life.  The  subject,  spread 
and  led  to  communication,  and  opened  to  a  large  field  of  doctrine, 
in  which  the  gospel  was  preached  in  the  authority  of  truth,  and 
a  very  comfortable  solemnity  covered  the  meeting. 

Third  day.  Attended  the  funeral  of  an  acquaintance,  a  con- 
vinced person  ;  it  being  his  request  on  his  death-bed  ;  and  also 
that  a  meetmg  might  be  held  at  his  funeral.  It  was  accordingly 
so  ordered,  and  proved  a  very  solemn  affecting  season,  particularly 
so  to  the  near  connexions  of  the  deceased.  The  Lord  was  gra- 
ciously near,  furnishing  abihty  to  bear  ample  testimony  to  many 
truths  of  the  gospel.  The  people  were  very  attentive,  and  many 
hearts  were  broken  and  contrited,  and  the  Lord's  name  and  power 
exalted  over  all. 

i  Seventh  day.  The  three  preceding  days  I  attended  our  quar- 
terly meeting,  which  was  held  at  this  time  at  Flushing.  The 
meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders,  and  the  meeting  for  discipline 
were  very  trying  heart-searching  seasons.  The  meeting  for 
worship  was  a  quiet  favoured  meeting.  We  had  great  cause  to 
acknowledge  the  goodness  and  continued  mercy  of  Israel's  Shep- 
herd, who  not  only  furnished  wisdom  and  ability  to  search  out 


156 


JOURNAL  OF 


the  hidden  things  of  Esau,  or  the  first  nature  ;  and  to  set  judg- 
ment upon  tlie  liead  of  the  transgressing  nature,  in  those  meet- 
ings set  apart  for  the  wcU-ordering  of  the  affairs  of  the  church : 
but  also  graciously  condescended  in  the  closing  meeting  held  for 
worship,  to  gladden  our  hearts  by  the  effusions  of  his  love, 
causing  the  light  of  his  countenance  to  shine  upon  us.  The 
minds  of  the  foithful  were  influenced  to  return  thanksgiving  and 
praise  to  his  ever  adorable  iiame,  who  remains  to  be  "  God  over 
all,  blessed  for  ever." 

First  day.  Sat  our  meeting  in  silence,  and  was  much  inter- 
rupted by  the  intrusion  of  unprofitable  thoughts,  against  which 
I  had  to  struggle  through  most  part  of  the  meeting. 

Second  and  third  days.  Spent  in  my  necessary  avoca:tions ; 
but  not  without  considerable  fear  attending,  lest  my  temporal 
concerns  too  much  hitrude  and  indispose  my  mind  for  heavenly 
meditations.    Nothing  material  occurred  the  rest  of  the  week. 

First  day.  Silence  as  to  words  sealed  my  lips  through  the 
meeting  again  to-day  ;  and  may  they  remain  shut  in  all  our 
solemn  meetings,  unless  opened  by  the  key  of  David. 

In  the  course  of  tliis  week  I  attended  the  funerak  of  two 
Friends  ;  at  Iwth  of  which  meetings  were  held.  In  the  first,  my 
mind  was  largely  opened  on  the  subject  of  religion ;  wherein  I 
was  led  to  show  to  the  auditoiy,  that  a  right  consideration  and 
frequent  remembrance  of  our  latter  end,  tended  to  lead  into  the 
realities  thereof;  which  consist  in  nothing  Init  acts  of  real  obedi- 
ence and  humble  submission  to  the  manifested  wall  of  our  hea- 
venly Father,  through  the  inspiration  of  his  grace  and  light  in 
our  own  hearts.  As  we  are  careful  to  have  this  in  om^  daily 
experience,  it  quahfies  to  answer  the  gi-eat  end  for  which  we  were 
created,  to  glorify  God  and  enjoy  him ;  and  be  thereby  pre- 
pared to  meet  death  with  an  even  and  tranquU  mind,  having 
known  its  sting,  which  is  sin,  taken  away  by  tlie  death  of  the 
cross.  I  was  also  led  to  expose;  the  doctrine  of  personal  and  un- 
conditional predestination  and  election  ;  and  to  show  the  fallacy 
and  inconsistency  thereof  with  the  divine  character. 

In  the  latter  meeting  I  was  concerned  to  show  the  dangerous 
and  hurtful  tendency  of  our  submitting  to  be  led  and  governed 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


157 


by  the  custonls  and  manners  of  others,  without  a  strict  and  care- 
ful examination  thereof ;  and  bringing  them  to  the  test  of  the 
light  in  oiu'  own  conscience.  For  although  the  frequency  of  a 
thing,  and  an  habitual  conformity  to  that  which  is  not  right, 
often  bhuits  the  edge  of  conviction,  and  reconciles  us  to  that 
which  is  contrary  to  truth,  and  derogatory  to  our  true  interest; 
yet  the  custom  of  sinning  will  not  lessen  its  guilt.  For  in  the 
awful  dciy  of  final  decision,  all  our  fig-leaf  coverings  will  be  torn 
ofl",  and  things  will  then  appear  as  they  really  are  ;  and  we  shall 
all  stand  in  need  of  that  substantial  covering,  represented  by  the 
coats  of  skins,  which  the  Lord  made  for  our  first  parents,  and  gave 
them  in  lieu  of  their  fig-leaves;  tliat  is,  something  of  their  own 
inventing,  that  so  their  nakedness  might  no  longer  be  exposed. 

My  mind  was  also  opened  to  set  forth  the  design  and  end  of 
the  shadowy  or  law  dispensation  ;  and.  that  by  its  consistency 
and  harmony  in  all  its  parts,  it  was  a  just  figure  and  representa- 
tion of  the  gospel  state  and  dispensation.  Many  of  its  precepts 
were  not  good,  nor  consistent  w  ilh  the  justice  and  mercy  of  (he 
aU-beneficent  and  giacious  Jeliovah  ;  but  were  only  so,  as  they 
stood  in  relation  to  the  very  low,  degraded  and  wicked  state  of 
mankind  at  that  time  ;  and  were  therefore  justly  suited  to  Israel's 
state,  and  the  states  and  conditions  of  the  surrounding  nations 
concerned  therein,  as  saith  Ezekiel :  "  Wherefore  I  gave  them 
also  statutes  that  were  not  good,  and  judgments  whereby  they 
should  not  live." 

First  day,  the  14th  of  11th  month.  Attended  Cow  Neck 
meeting  to  satisfaction. 

The  rest  of  this  week  I  spent  at  home,  being  closely  engaged 
in  business,  and  in  making  preparation  for  the  more  comfortable 
accommodation  of  my  stock  through  the  inclemency  of  the  ap- 
proaching winter  ;  considering  that  a  merciful  man  is  merciful 
to  his  beast ;  and  as  I  consider  it  not  right  to  keep  in  my  posses- 
sion, and  under  my  immediate  notice,  any  more  of  the  animal 
creation  than  I  can  render  reasonably  comfortable. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  monthly  meeting,  in  wliich  my 
mind  was  engaged  to  show  the  great  benefit  that  would  result  to 
society,  and  to  its  members  as  individuals,  by  a  right  exercise 


158 


JOURNAL  OF 


and  faithful  execution  of  our  discipline,  without  fear  or  favour ; 
and  that  some  cases  of  disorder  in  an  individual  might  turn  up, 
which,  with  its  attendant  circumstances,  might  render  it  not  only- 
necessary  to  disown  the  person,  but  would  also  prove  more  to  his 
true  interest,  and  the  advancement  of  the  cause  and  testimonies 
that  we  as  a  people  are  engaged  in,  than  the  reception  of  any 
untimely  or  unseasonable  acknowledgment  could  possibly  be. 
For  I  have  always  considered  it  required,  not  only  deep  and  solid 
consideration,  but  suitable  time  of  waiting,  in  order  rightly  to 
qualify  a  person  to  make  an  acknowledgment  for  an  offence  com- 
mitted against  a  religious  society. 

First  day.  My  mind  was  closely  engaged,  and  largely  opened, 
to  show  the  inconsistency  and  unrighteousness  of  a  conformity 
to  the  vain  and  foolish  customs  of  the  world ;  demonstrating 
from  the  scriptures,  that  in  all  ages  since  the  fall  of  our  first 
parents,  the  customs  of  men  and  women  in  their  natural  estate, 
were  vain,  and  that  there  was  a  certain  degree  of  wickedness 
attached  to  every  vanity;  hence  the  necessity  of  oui:  carefully 
guarding  against  the  conformity  to  any  custom  or  tradition,  imtil 
we  have  first  brought  it  to  the  test  of  the  light  in  our  own  con- 
sciences, and  the  reason  of  things  ;  and  also  to  its  consistency 
with  the  precepts  and  example  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ :  and 
if  relating  to  our  duty  towards  our  feUow  creatures,  examine 
whether  it  comports  with  that  rnost  excellent  rule  given  by  him 
as  a  criterion  of  conduct :  "  All  things  whatsoever  ye  would  that 
men  should  do  to  you,  do  ye  even  so  to  them  ;  for  this  is  the  law 
and  the  prophets." 

Second,  third,  and  fourth  days.  Nothing  particular  occun'ed. 
On  fifth  day  I  was. invited  to  the  funeral  of  a  friend  who  was  a 
member  of  Bethpage  particular  meeting,  which  I  attended. 
After  the  intemient  a  solemn  meeting  was  held,  in  which  my 
mind  was  largely  opened  to  set  forth  to  the  people,  the  great 
necessity,  as  well  as  wisdom  and  propriety,  of  an  early  preparation 
for  death  ;  and  showing  them  the  way  whereby  it  could  only  be 
rightly  effected.  It  was  a  season  of  renewed  visitation  to  a  rem- 
nant, and  many  hearts  were  broken  and  contrited. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


159 


CHAPTER  VII. 

Engagements  at  and  about  home,  1813  and  1814. 

First  day,  the  28th  of  11th  month,  1813.  Feehng  my  mind 
drawn  last  evening  and  tliis  morning  to  attend  Friends'  meeting 
at  Martinicock,  I  submitted  thereto  and  went  alone.  In  the 
forepart  of  the  meeting,  I  had  to  combat  a  spirit  of  ease  and 
stupefaction,  which  is  generally  prevalent  among  the  worldly- 
minded,  although  they  may  be  pretty  steady  in  attending  meet- 
ings ;  yet  it  is  to  be  feared  with  little  or  no  profit,  if  it  be  true 
what  the  beloved  apostle  has  affirmed,  that :  "  If  any  man  love 
the  world,  the  love  of  the  Father  is  not  in  him."  In  the  latter 
part  of  the  meeting  I  was  led  to  view  the  excellency  of  the  pacific 
principles  of  the  gospel,  as  promulgated  by  Jesus  Christ  and  his 
apostles  ;  and  to  show  to  the  people,  the  very  great  and  essentieil 
benefit  and  blessing  which  would  result  to  the  professors  of 
Christianity  by  a  strict  adherence  and  submission  thereunto ;  as 
they  stand  in  direct  opposition  to  the  spirit  of  violence  and  war, 
and  breathe  forth  nothing  but  peace  on  earth  and  good  will  to 
men.  It  proved  through  mercy  a  season  of  favour ;  many  hearts 
were  contrited,  and  the  faithful  and  poor  in  spirit  comforted  and 
strengthened ;  and  my  own  mind  inspired  with  gratitude  and 
thankfulness  for  such  unmerited  mercy. 

First  day,  the  5th  of  12th  month.  The  six  working  days  of 
last  week  were  principally  spent  in  my  worldly  concerns,  except 
attending  our  fifth  day  meeting,  and  the  Charity  Society  meeting 
yesterday ;  an  institution  of  Friends  for  educating  the  children 
of  poor  black  people.  Our  funds,  agreeably  to  the  last  report  of 
a  settlement  with  the  Treasurer,  amount  to  upwards  of  thirteen 
hundred  dollars ;  the  interest  of  which  is  yearly  expended  for  the 


160= 


JOURNAL  OF 


above  pmpose,  by  a  committee  of  the  Society,  who  superintend 
the  educating  of  said  chUchen.  The  directors  of  the  Society  are 
limited  to  thirty  memljers,  who  meet  quarterly  for  the  promotion 
and  oversight  of  the  institution.  I  attended  our  fifth  day  meet- 
ing in  silence,  and  sat  our  meeting  in  like  manner  to-day,  in 
poverty  of  spirit,  wliich  terminated  in  a  peaceful  close. 

First  day,  the  12th  of  12th  month.  At  our  meeting  to-day, 
my  mind  was  largely  opened  to  set  forth  before  the  people  the 
diflerence  betw^ecn  the  law  state  and  thfit  of  the  gospel.  It  was, 
I  trust,  an  instructive  edifying  season,  worthy  of  grateftd  remem- 
brance. 

Second  day  afternoon  I  rode  to  New- York,  in  order  to  attend 
tlie  meeting  for  sufferings  to  be  lield  there  the  next  day.  It 
opened  at  the  ninth  hour.  We  got  through  the  business  at  tw^o 
sittings,  and  closed  in  the  evening.  Fourth  day  afternoon  I  rode 
home.  Fifth  day  was  our  monthly  meeting.  The  meeting  for 
worship  was,  I  think,  a  favoured  comfortable  season ;  and  the 
testimonies  communicated  instructive  and  edifying :  such  repeated 
favoured  seasons  make  it  evident  beyond  controversy,  that  we  are 
still  a  highly  favoured  people,  and  shall  be  accountable  according 
to  the  manifold  mercies  and  blessings  bestowed  upon  us :  and 
we  have  great  cause  often  to  query,  like  the  psalmist  formerly, 
"  What  shall  I  render  unto  the  Lord  for  all  his  benefits  towards 
me;"  for  his  mercies  are  new  every  morning;  great  is  his 
faithfidness. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Spent  in  my  ordinary  concerns ; 
yet,  I  trust,  my  mind  was  preserved  in  a  state  of  watchfulness 
and  care,  that  what  I  do,  even  in  my  temporal  business,  may  all 
be  done  to  the  glory  of  God,  and  be  useful  to  myself  and  to 
my  fellow  creatures. 

First  day,  the  19th  of  12th  month.  While  silently  musing  in 
our  meeting  towards  the  latter  part,  a  subject  opened  which  led  to 
the  necessity  of  communication,  wherein  that  petition  in  the 
prayer  our  Lord  taught  his  disciples,  viz:  "  Thy  kingdom  come; 
thy  will  be  done  in  earth  as  it  is  in  heaven  ;"  was  opened  to  the 
audience;  and  the  necessity  of  our  individually  Avitnessing  it  ful- 
filled in  us,  as  the  only  medium  through  which  we  can  obtain 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


161 


salvation,  and  a  preparation  for  the  kingdom  of  heaven.  This 
was  pressed  upon  the  people,  showing  from  tlie  analogy  of  things, 
that  as  there  is  nothing  but  the  Lord's  will  done  in  heaven,  a 
soul  that  is  not  reconciled  thereto,  mnnot  enter  therein,  nor  par- 
'  take  of  its  celestial  enjoyment. 

The  rest  of  the  week  was  carefully  employed  in  my  household 
concerns,  with  the  attendance  of  our  fifth  day  meeting,  agreea- 
bly to  my  invariable  practice  when  at  home,  if  not  prevented  by 
indisposition.    It  was  a  quiet  comfortable  meeting. 

Sixth  day.    Attended  the  fiineral  of  our  honest  friend  Richard 
Townsend.    There  was  a  large  collection  of  Friends  and  neigh- 
bours, he  being  generally  esteemed.    A  meeting  was  held  on  the 
occasion,  which  proved  a  very  solemn  season.    The  people's 
attention  was  called  to  the  necessity  of  a  timely  preparation  for 
death,  in  a  large  arousing  testimony ;  setting  forth  the  great  and 
singular  advantages  which  would  redound  to  the  children  of 
men,  by  their  obtaining  right  ideas  and  apprehensions  of  God. 
The  want  of  these  left  them  to  be  led  away  into  a  beUef  of  many 
strange  and  ideal  notions  concerning  him,  particularly  that  of 
foreordination  ;  the  inconsistency  of  which,  my  mind  was  led  to 
unfold  to  the  auditory,  by  this  and  other  undeniable  arguments; — 
that,  as  God's  ordination,  and  God's  creation,  and  God's  will,  are 
always  in  perfect  unison,  and  cannot  be  diverse  one  from  the 
other ;  and  as  all  that  he  wills  and  creates  is  immutably  good, 
agreeably  to  his  own  declaration  in  the  work  of  creation ;  hence, 
whatever  he  ordains  must  likewise  be  immutably  good :  there- 
fore, if  there  is  any  such  thing  as  sin  and  iniquity  in  the  world, 
then  God  has  neither  willed  it,  nor  ordained  it;  as  it  is  impossible 
for  him  to  will  contradictions.   And  secondly,  if  he  has,  previous 
to  man's  creation,  willed  and  determined  all  his  actions,  then 
certainly  every  man  stands  in  the  same  state  of  acceptance  with 
him,  and  a  universal  salvation  must  certainly  take  place ;  which 
I  conceive  the  favourers  of  foreordination  would  be  as  unwilling 
as  myself  to  believe.   And  moreover,  if  man  was  not  vested  with 
the  power  of  free  agency,  and  a  liberty  of  determining  his  own 
will,  in  relation  to  a  choice  of  good  or  evil,  he  could  not  be  an 
accountable  creature;  neither  would  it  be  in  his  power  to  commit 

21 


162 


JOURNAL  OF 


sin.  It  was  a  time  of  favour,  and  tlie  Loru  &  uiessing  on  the 
labours  of  the  day  was  reverently  supplicated.  O,  saith  my  soul, 
may  they  have  the  desired  effect. 

First  day,  the  26th  of  12th  month.  Sat  the  greater  part  of 
our  meeting  in  much  weakness  and  poverty  of  spirit,  to  which  I 
felt  perfectly  resigned,  believing  it  to  be  agreeable  to  the  Lord's 
wUl.  But  towards  tire  close  an  honest  elderly  Friend,  though 
young  and  small  in  such  service,  expressed  a  sentence  or  two 
accompanied  with  a  degree  of  life,  which  seemed  to  give  spring 
to  a  concern  on  my  mind,  which  led  to  communication.  The 
suliject  which  opened  was  to  show,  that  plainness  and  simplicity 
were  the  true  marks  and  badges  of  the  Lord's  people  and  children 
in  every  age  of  the  world,  witnessed  to  by  the  true  nature  and 
analogy  of  all  things  in  the  universe ;  and  confirmed  by  the 
testimony  of  the  grace  and  good  spirit  of  God  through  his  ser- 
vants in  aE  the  generations  of  mankind.  The  youth  were  ex- 
horted and  tenderly  invited  to  submit  to  the  cross  of  Christ, 
with  the  assurance  assented  to  by  the  experience  of  all  the  faith- 
ful ;  that  if  they  bowed  wilUngly  to  his  yoke,  it  would  become 
not  only  easy  but  delightful.  But  alas  !  how  true  is  that  decla- 
ration of  the  prophet :  "  who  hath  believed  our  report,  and  to 
whom  is  the  arm  of  the  Lord  revealed  1"  Certainly  to  none  but 
the  obedient,  which  number,  if  we  are  to  judge  by  their  fruits,  is 
doubtless  very  small. 

Second,  third,  and  fourth  days.  Spent  mostly  in  my  temporal 
business,  but  not  wthout  a  watchful  care  lest  it  should  engage 
too  much  of  my  attention.  The  evenings  were  partly  spent  in 
reading  the  scriptures,  in  which  I  greatly  dehght.  How  excel- 
lent are  those  records !  although  old,  yet  they  seem  ever  new. 
The  prophecy  of  Micah  was  a  part  of  my  present  reading ;  what 
a  dignified  sense  and  clear  view  he  had  of  the  gospel  state  and 
worship ;  and  how  exceedingly  it  lessened  the  service  and  worship 
of  the  law  in  his  view,  in  the  clear  sense  given  him  of  its  full 
and  complete  abolishment,  with  all  its  shadowy  rituals ;  when 
he  was  led  to  set  forth  its  insufficiency,  in  this  exalted  language: 
"  Wherewith  shall  I  come  before  the  Lord,  and  bow  myself 
before  the  high  God?    Shall  I  come  before  him  with  burnt- 


ELI  AS  HICKS. 


163 


offerings,  Vith  calves  of  a  year  old  ?  Will  the  Lord  be  pleased 
with  thousands  of  rams,  or  with  ten  thousands  of  rivers  of  oil  ? 
Shall  1  give  niy  first-born  for  aiy  transgression,  the  fruit  of  my 
body  for  the  sin  of  my  soul  ?"  No,  none,  nor  all  of  these  were 
sufficient  to  give  access  to  the  divine  presence,  or  to  the  divine 
law  under  the  gospel ;  they  being  only  shadows,  and  therefore 
could  only  give  access  to  the  outward  law  and  outward  lawgiver 
Moses,  and  the  law  and  ordinances  given  by  him ;  which  were 
also  shadows  of  the  true  substance.  For  Moses,  and  his  outward 
law  and  ordinances,  stood  in  the  same  relation  to  outward  Israel, 
imder  the  shadowy  dispensation,  as  Christ  the  spiritual  Moses, 
with  his  spiritual  law  written  in  the  heart,  does  to  liis  spiritual 
Israel  under  the  gospel;  "  which  is  a  dispensation  not"  of  shadow, 
but  of  substance ;  as  is  clearly  shown  by  the  sequel  of  the  testi- 
mony of  Micah  above  alluded  to,  where  he  goes  on  as  follows  : 
"  He  hath  showed  thee,  O  man,  what  is  good ;"  tJien  certainly 
not  shadow  nor  sign,  but  real  substance,  "  and  what  doth  the 
Lord  l  equire  of  thee,"  not  only  by  an  outward,  but  by  his  inward, 
divine  law,  "  but  to  do  justly,  and  to  love  mercy,  and  to  walk 
humbly  with  thy  God."  This  is  the  sum  and  substance  of  all 
true  religion  and  worship,  and  needs  not  the  continuance  of  any 
outward  elementary  washings  or  eatings  or  drinkings;  but.  opens 
to  the  necessity  of  our  drinking  at  that  spiritual  river,  the  streams 
whereof  make  glad  the  whole  heritage  of  God.  For  those  that 
drinkthereof  will  never  thirst  again,  at  least  for  the  water  of  any 
other  stream. 

Fifth  day.  Sat  our  meeting  to-day  in  silence.  It  is  not 
unpleasant  to  feel  ourselves  sometimes  circumstanced  as  Morde- 
cai  formerly,  sitting  at  the  king's  gate,  and,  in  its  season,  is  as 
grateful  to  the  tnily  fumble  and  submissive  mind,  as  riding  on 
the  king's  horse,  and  all  bowing  before  us. 

First  day,  the  2d  of  1st  month,  1814.  Another  year  is  ended. 
Oh  my  soul,  how  hast  thou  improved  it,  and  what  progress  hast 
thou  made  in  thy  heavenly  journey  ?  As  I  sat  in  our  meeting 
to-day,  my  mind  was  led  to  contrast  the  law  and  gospel,  or 
shadow  and  substance.  "  While  I  was  musmg  the  fire  burned," 
and  my  heart  became  warmed  within  me ;  "  then  spake  I  with 


164 


JOURNAL  OF 


my  tongue,"  and  encleavomed  in  a  zeal  for  the  Lord's  cause,  to 
open  to  the  people,  the  superiour  excellency  of  the  gospel,  above 
and  beyond  that  of  the  law,  as  set  forth  by  the  precepts,  doctrines, 
example  and  commands  of  our  great  and  gracious  lawgiver  Jesus 
Christ.  The  life  rose  towards  the  close  of  the  meeting  into  a  good 
degree  of  dominion,  through  hard  labour  and  toil.  For  many 
professors  lie  so  securely  in  their  graves,  that  nothing  short  of  the 
powerful  voice  that  raised  Lazarus  formerly,  is  sufficient  to 
quicken  and  raise  them  therefrom. 

Second  day.  This  day  principally  spent  in  making  provision 
more  favourably  to  meet  the  inclemency  of  the  ensuing  winter. 

Third  day.  Spent  as  yesterday.  In  the  evening  read  Thomas 
Ell  wood's  relation  of  his -sufferings  and  cruel  usage  from  his 
father,  because,  for  conscience'  sake,  he  could  not  pull  off  his  hat 
and  stand  bare  before  him  ;  and  for  using  the  plain  language  of 
thou  and  thee,  instead  of  the  phual  you.  Alas  !  what  a  spirit  of 
pride,  arrogance  and  cruelty  governs  the  children  of  men,  while 
living  in  the  lusts  of  their  fallen  nature,  estranged  from  God 
and  from  his  true  nature  and  image.  And  it  is  to  be  feared 
that  many  in  this  day,  who  profess  to  be  the  successors  of  those 
primitive  sufferers,  our  worthy  predecessors,  who  stood  faithful, 
and  patiently  bore  the  burden  and  heat  of  the  day,  through 
many  years  of  cruel  persecution,  are  now  turning  back  like 
a  broken  bow ;  and  through  the  fear  or  favour  of  men,  are 
disregarding  the  testimonies  which  their  forefathers  in  the  truth 
purchased  at  so  dear  a  rate  ;  and  are  ready  to  account  many  of 
them  but  small,  or  as  indifferent  things,  which  may,  or  may  not, 
be  attended  to  at  their  own  pleasure.  But  alas  for  these,  it  is  to 
be  feared  they  will  never  have  a  view,  much  less  be  permitted 
to  enter  the  promised  land,  the  heavenly  ^Canaan  :  but  will  fall 
in  the  wilderness  as  did  the  unbeUeving  and  rebellious  in  former 
ages.  I  often  mourn  and  take  up  a  lamentation,  when  I  behold 
the  children  of  believing  parents,  turning  aside,  disobedient  to 
their  parents,  and  disregarding  the  travail  and  exercise  of  their  con- 
cerned Friends,  who  are  labouring  for  their  return:  but  those  who 
are  faithful  to  give  the  watchword  in  season,  will  be  clear  of  their 
Wood,  and  the  Lord  will  be  clear.    For  he  will  have  a  people, 


♦ 

ISLIAS  HICKS.  165 

and,  as  formerly,  will  send  his  servants  into  the  highways  and 
hedges,  and  gather  from  thence,  that  his  house  may  be  filled: 
but  those  children  of  the  kingdom,  who  are  making  excuses,  and 
will  not  come  when  they  are  bidden,  will  be  cast  out  into  outer 
darkness,  where  will  be  weeping  and  gnashing  of  teeth. 

Fourth  day.  I  was  occupied  as  a  carpenter,  in  making  some 
conveniences  for  my  stock.  I  felt  wearied  at  evening  with  the 
labour  of  the  day,  but  was  comforted  with  a  peaceful  mind,  feel- 
ing myself  at  peace  with  all  men.  A  blessed  privilege ;  it  is  the 
Lord's  doing,  and  marvellous  in  mine  eyes. 

Seventh  day.  Attended  the  fimeral  of  an  ancient  Friend.  A 
meeting  was  held  on  the  occasion,  wherein  I  was  exercised  in  a 
large  arousing  testimony  suited  to  the  occasion.  May  it  be  to 
the  honest  inquirers,  as  a  nail  fastened  in  a  sru'e  place ;  and  to 
those  who  yet  remain  unwilling  to  surrender,  as  bread  cast  upon 
the  waters,  found  after  many  days. 

First  day,  the  9th  of  1st  month.  At  our  meeting  to-day  I  was 
led  to  reflect  on  my  frequent  appearances  in  the  ministry  at  home, 
and  ready  to  wonder  why  I  was  led  so  often  to  communicate  to 
almost  the  'same  assembly.  But  these  meditations  were  soon 
superseded  by  a  renewed  Uving  concern,  which  opened  again  to 
communication,  in  a  deep  searching  testimony  ;  wherein  I  was 
led  to  show  the  fallacy  and  weakness  of  all  man's  creaturely  and 
carnal  reasoning,  that  it  was  all  estranged  from  God,  and  stood 
in  the  ignorance  and  corruption  of  his  fallen  nature ;  and  that 
man  never  had,  nor  could  have,  consistent  with  his  nature  as  a 
dependent  being,  a  right  to  assume  a  power  to  use  his  reason  at 
his  own  discretion  and  will;  but  only  in  submission  and  subser- 
vience to  the  dictates  of  the  light  and  spirit  of  his  Creator,  as 
paramount  both  to  his  reason  and  animal  senses.  For  his  reason 
is  given  him  as  an  agent  imder  his  Creator,  to  govern  and  keep 
in  due  order  the  animal  senses ;  not  according  to  his  own  dis- 
cretion and  will,  but  agreeable  to  the  manifestations  of  the  divine 
spirit,  or  inward  law  and  will,  of  his  heavenly  Father.  It  was 
an  humbling  season,  and  many  hearts  with  mine  own  were 
bowed  in  reverence,  under  the  sensible  impress  of  the  divine 
power. 


166  JOURNAL  OP 

The  rest  of  the  week  I  passed  in  my  usuaf  engagements,  and 
in  visi(ing  some  of  my  friends. 

First  day,  tiie  lOtii  of  1st  month.  Sat  our  meeting  in  silence 
to-day.  The  three  following  days  I  spent  in  attending  to  my 
usnal  avocations,  and  in  visiting  two  of  my  sick  neighbours. 
One  of  them  was  a  young  man,  who  was  convinced  of  the  truth, 
as  held  by  us,  in  his  yoxmg  years.  He  spoke  very  sensibly  of 
the  work  of  truth  on  his  mind  in  the  early  part  of  his  convince- 
ment,  and  of  the  awe  that  covered  his  spirit,  through  the  sensible 
impressions  of  the  divine  power;  and  recapitulated  the  precious 
seasons  he  had  witnessed  in  the  fields,  sitting  on  rocks,  and 
stumps  of  trees  ;  and  that  he  now  felt  his  love  to  reach  forth  and 
embrace  the  whole  human  family.  He  appeared  to  be  in  a 
sweet  and  quiet  frame  of  mind,  though  so  weak,  as  not  to  be 
able  to  speak  louder  than  a  whisper.  What  a  precious  thing  it 
is  when  the  youth  submit  willingly  to  the  visitations  of  divine 
love  in  their  tender  years ;  how  amiable  they  appear,  and  how 
peaceful  their  close  ;  a  pearl  to  be  valued  above  all  temporal 
enjoyments. 

Fifth  day.  This  being  the  time  of  our  monthly  "meeting,  we 
had  the  company  of  two  Friends  on  a  visit  to  vis.  One  of  them 
appeared  largely  in  the  line  of  the  ministrjr,  but  a  fear  attended 
my  mind,  lest  he  had  not  sufficiently  attended  to  that  command, 
which  forbids  sowing  our  ground  with  mingled  seed  ;  or  suffer- 
ing a  garment  of  linen  and  woollen  to  come  upon  us  :  Oh  how 
necessary  it  is  for  all  those  who  apprehend  they  are  called  to  the 
work  of  the  ministry,  to  know  self  fully  reduced  ;  otherwise  they 
may  be  in  danger  of  endeavouring  to  cover  the  harlot,  with  the 
Lord's  jewels ;  and  with  fair  words,  and  fine  speeches,  deceive 
the  hearts  of  the  simple. 

Sixth  day.  Attended  our  preparative  meeting  of  Ministers 
and  Elders.  I  had  to  drop  a  caution,  founded  on  the  failure  of 
Moses  and  Aaron  at  the  rock  ;  when  instead  of  speaking  to  it,  as 
commanded,  Moses  smote  it  with  his  rod,  with  the  addition  of, 
"hear  now,  ye  rebels  ;  must  we  fetch  you  water  out  of  this  rock?" 
Tliis  act,  being  the  effect  of  mere  creaturely  zeal  and  warmth 
of  natural  passions,  lost  them  much  ;  as  it  prevented  their  enter- 


4 


ELIAS  HICKS.  167 

ing  into  the  promised  land.  Oh  how  needful  it  is  for  those  who 
are  called  to  stand  as  a  medium  between  God  and  the  people, 
to  be  deeply  attentive  to  the  word  of  command,  and  not  add 
thereto,  nor  diminish  therefrom,  imder  the  penalty  of  his  dis- 
pleasure. For  if  he  spared  not  Moses  who  was  only  guilty  of 
this  one  fault  in  his  administration,  liow  much  less  can  we  expect 
that  he  will  spare  us,  if  we  should  add  to,  or  duninish  from,  the 
word  of  propliecy. 

Sevenlli  day.  Assisted  a  sick  neighbour  to  settle  his  outward 
business  by  writing  his  will  and  seeing  it  executed.  I  then 
endeavoured  to  stimulate  his  mind  with  a  concern  rightly  to 
improve  the  few  remaining  moments  which  might  be  permitted 
hun  on  this  side  the  grave ;  that  so  he  might  be  prepared  to 
meet  death  with  a  peacefid  and  tranquil  mind. 

First  day,  the  23d  of  1st  month,  1814.  Attended  Weslbury 
meeting,  at  which  there  was  a  funeral  of  a  deceased  ancient 
woman  Friend.  It  was  a  large  meeting.  Many  Friends  and 
neighbours  came  from  a  distance  to  attend  the  funeral.  I  had 
good  service  among  them  in  the  line  of  the  ministry,  by  way  of 
caution,  encouragement  and  reproof ;  and  was  led  to  press  upon 
the  auditory  the  necessity  of  a  submission  of  our  wills  to  the 
divine  will,  as  the  only  medium  through  which  we  could  become 
qualified  to  answer  the  great  end  of  our  creation ;  which  is  to 
glorify  God  and  enjoy  him. 

Second  day.  Attended  the  funeral  of  a  pious  young  Friend 
of  our  meeting  who  departed  this  life  by  a  consumption,  after 
lingering  a  few  months.  His  corpse  was  carried  into  our  meet- 
ing-house at  Jericho.  There  was  a  large  meeting  on  the  occa- 
sion, and  through  the  prevalence  of  the  divine  power  that  presided 
over  the  assembly,  it  proved  a  very  solemn  time.  Many  hearts 
were  broken  and  contrited  by  the  force  of  the  testimony,  which 
went  forth  powerfully  clothed  with  the  demonstration  of  the  spuit, 
and  the  Lord's  name  was  exalted  over  all. 

Seventh  day.  This  being  the  time  of  our  quarterly  meeting, 
1  was  mostly  employed  through  the  week  in  attention  thereto. 
It  was,  I  think,  through  the  several  sittings  a  solemn  searching 
time.    My  mind  was  closely  engaged  on  several  subjects  apper- 


168  JOURNAL  OF 

taining  to  our  Christian  testimonies  ;  but  more  particularly  that 
against  war,  whicli  was  now  in  the  land.  Friends,  with  others, 
were  called  upon  for  supplies  by  way  of  taxes  to  carry  it  on, 
which  were  levied  various  ways  on  the  inhabitants.  I  felt  my 
mind  deeply  engaged  to  lay  before  Friends  the  inconsistency  of 
our  actively  coraphing  with  any  such  military  requisitions,  be- 
Ueving  that  if  we  did,  we  should  not  only  become  accessaries  in 
the  war,  but  should  have  to  bear  a  part  of  the  guilt  of  shedding 
the  blood  of  our  fellow  creatures.  The  Lord's  power  was  felt  to 
preside,  and  the  testimonies  borne  on  the  occasion  were  evidently 
clothed  with  divine  authority,  keeping  down  all  opposition.  The 
minds  of  the  faithful  were  inspired  with  humble  gratitude  and 
thanksgiving  to  the  Lord  our  gracious  helper,  under  a  renewed 
sense  of  his  continued  mercy  to  us  as  a  people ;  and  to  all  the 
workmanship  of  his  holy  hand. 

First  day,  the  30th  of  1st  month,  1814.  As  I  was  sitting  in 
our  meeting  my  mind  became  exercised  in  contemplating  the 
danger  that  some  of  my  fellow  professors  of  the  Christian  name 
are  exposed  to,  by  placing  their  dependence  for  justification  and 
salvation  on  the  i7nptttative  righteousness  of  Christ  which  lie 
performed  without  them,  without  coming  to  know  a  complete 
remission  of  their  sins,  and  living  a  life  of  righteousness  through 
faith  in  the  operation  of  God,  and  a  submission  to  the  work  of 
his  spirit  in  their  minds  ;  by  which,  according  to  the  apostle's 
exhortation,  they  can  only  be  enabled  to  work  out  their  own  sal- 
vation with  fear  and  trembling.  For  it  is  God  that  worketh  in 
the  willing  and  obedient  soul,  both  to  wUl  and  to  do  of  his  own 
good  pleasure  ;  but  this  can  only  be  witnessed  by  such  as  expe- 
rience their  own  wUls  to  be  mortified  and  slain  by  the  power  of 
the  cross  inwardly  revealed,  whereby  the  true  spiritual  atone- 
ment is  made.  I  was  largely  opened  to  communicate  on  some 
of  these  subjects  ;  and  to  show  to  the  people  wherein  the  true 
harmony  Ijetween  the  law  dispensation,  and  that  of  the  gospel 
consisted.  It  was  a  season  worthy  of  grateful  remembrance ; 
the  meeting  closed  with  thanksgi\Tng  and  prayer,  under  a  re- 
newed sense  of  the  continued  mercy  of  our  gracious  God,  who  is 
over  all,  blessed  for  ever. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


169 


Second  day.    Being  unwell  with  a  cold  I  kept  house  and  read. 

Third  day.  Having  the  evening  before  received  an  invitation 
to  attend  the  funeral  of  a  deceased  neighbour  about  four  miles 
distant  from  my  dwelling,  and  understanchng  it  was  the  desire 
of  the  deceased  on  her  death-bed  that  I  would  attend  ;  I  felt 
inclined  to  go,  although  still  unwell.  I  was  glad  I  gave  up 
thereto,  as  it  proved,  through  heavenly  help,  a  solemn  instructive 
season,  wherein  my  heart  and  mouth  were  opened  to  declare 
largely  of  the  way  of  life  and  salvation  to  the  people  in  the  clear 
demonstration  of  truth.  The  assembly  in  general  were  bowed 
and  humbled,  and  many  hearts  contrited ;  to  the  Lord  alone  be 
the  praise,  for  to  him  only  it  is  due. 

Fourth  day.    Still  unwell:  mostly  kept  house. 

Fifth  day.  Ventured  out  to  our  meeting,  but  was  considerably 
afflicted  with  my  cold  and  cough.  The  meeting  was  held  in 
silence. 

The  two  following  days,  and  the  forepart  of  the  next  week,  I 
employed,  mostly,  in  preparing  for  the  press  a  small  treatise  on 
slavery ;  and  on  the  use  of  the  produce  of  the  labour  of  slaves. 
I  laid  it  before  our  meeting  for  sufferings  which  met  this  week  ; 
and  obtained  their  concurrence  for  printing  it.  As  I  was  in  the 
city,  I  attended  Friends'  meetings  as  they  came  in  course  on 
fourth  and  fifth  days,  and  returned  home  on  sixth  day.  Nothing 
particular  transpired  on  seventh  day.  . 

First  day,  the  13th  of  2d  month.  Was  largely  opened  in 
communication  on  divers  subjects  in  a  very  searching  testimony, 
which  brought  a  covering  of  great  solemnity  over  the  meeting. 
The  honest-hearted  were  comforted  :  l)ut  it  was  a  season  of  sharp 
reproof  to  the  unfaithful  and  lukewarm. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  monthly  meeting,  at  which  nothing 
opened  worthy  of  particular  notice.  , 

Seventh  day.  I  attended  the  fimeral  of  the  wife  of  John 
Wine,  a  Friend  of  Flushing.  We  had  a  very  solemn  meeting 
on  the  occasion,  in  which  I  was  exercised  in  a  large  affecting 
testimony,  tendering  and  contriting  the  hearts  of  the  assembly 
in  general.  The  trath  was  raised  mto  dominion,  breaking  down 
all  before  its  influential  searching  power ;  which  was  cause  of 

22 


170 


JOURNAL  OP 


deep  gratitude  and  thanksgiving  to  the  Lord  our  gracious  helper, 
for  his  unmerited  mercy,  still  dispensed  in  his  longsuffering 
loving  kindness  to  the  children  of  men. 

Feelmg  my  mind  inclined  to  sit  with  Friends  here  the  next 
day,  which  was  first  day,  the  people  were  notified  thereof  at  the 
close  of  the  foregoing  opportunity.  It  was  a  full  meeting,  in 
which  truth  favoured  and  furnished  with  matter  suited  to  the 
states  of  those  present ;  which  made  it  an  instructive  edifying 
season.  The  canopy  of  love  was  felt  to  spread  sweetly  and  very 
comfortably  over  the  assembly,  and  I  parted  with  them  in  the 
fresh  feeling  thereof;  and  with  a  peaceful  mind,  and  a  thankful 
sense  of  the  Lord's  merc}'. 

Nothing  particular  occiu  red  in  the  course  of  the  next  week  ; 
but  the  precious  savour  that  was  witnessed  in  the  two  foremen- 
tioned  opportimities,  remained  as  a  canopy  over  my  mind,  and 
was  cause  of  humble  gratitude  and  thankfidness  to  the  blessed 
Author  of  all  our  rich  mercies  and  blessings. 

First  day,  the  27th  of  2d  month.  My  mind,  in  our  meeting 
to-day,  after  a  considerable  time  of  humble  quiet  waiting,  and 
seeking  to  be  gathered  to  Shiloh,  was  led  in  prospect  to  view  the 
gieat  and  singular  advantages  which  would  redound  to  the  chil- 
dren of  men  by  an  early  acquaintance  with  the  Lord ;  and  by 
continually  looking  to  him,  and  relying  on  him,  as  the  primary 
and  only  object  of  their  faith  and  hope.  The  prospect  enlarged 
and  opened  to  a  communication,  and  the  tmth  was  raised  into  a 
comfortable  degree  of  dominion,  and  spread  a  solemn  covering 
over  the  assembly  ;  and  many  hearts  were  contrited  and  made 
glad  from  a  feeling  sense  of  the  Lord's  mercy  vouchsafed  to  us 
at  this  season.  O  how  good  is  the  Lord,  and  how  greatly  to  be 
praised,  for  his  mercy  endureth  for  ever. 

The  rest  of  this  week  I  was  occupied  in  my  temporal  concerns, 
Sat  our  fifth  day  meeting  in  silence,  in  which  I  had  to  maintain 
a  steady*  warfare  against  the  intrusion  of  unprofitable  thoughts. 
O  how  precious  it  is  to  be  favoured  to  gain  a  complete  victory  over 
these,  and  to  have  the  mind  brought- to  witness  a  profound  still- 
ness, where  nothuig  reigns  but  Jesus,  in  his  inwaid  spiritual 
government. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


171. 


First  day,  the  6th  of  3d  month.  In  our  meeting  tp-day  I  had 
again  to  bear  testimony  against  the  prevaihng  evils  of  the  day; 
some  of  which  I  had  to  expose,  and  to  show  how  we  must  enter 
the  church  miUtant,  if  ever  we  enter  right,  and  become  useful 
members  thereof,  and  be  txxxly  comforted  and  profited  thereby. 
The  communication  was  introduced  l)y  the  parable  of  the  supper, 
which  sliows  that  those  who  have  something  of  the  pleasures 
and  treasures  of  this  world  to  gratify  and  comfort  themselves  with, 
will  not  come  in,  although  invited  :  but  those  who  are  brought 
to  a  full  sense  of  theii-  wretched  and  forlorn  condition,  without 
God  and  without  a  Saviour,  compared,  in  the  parable,  to  those 
who  are  poor  and  destitute  of  every  comfort,  and  scattered  in  the 
highways  and  hedges,  will  seek  a  place  of  refuge ;  and  having 
Iried  every  means  they  had  in  their  power,  and  every  invention 
that  man  has  sought  out  in  the  way  of  salvation,  and  after  all 
finding  themselves  still  left  in  a  state  of  disappointment,  are  made 
willing  to  surrender  all  up,  and  sell  all ;  that  so  they  may  be 
enabled  to  purchase  the  field  wherein  the  pearl  of  great  price 
lies.  The  word  went  forth  with  power,  and  struck  home  to 
many  minds,  and  a  very  solemn  weight  appeared  to  cover  the 
assembly  in  general. 

Second,  third,  and  fourth  days.  Spent  in  a  quiet  attention  to 
my  temporal  concerns  with  the  attendant  blessing  of  peace  of 
mind ;  yet  not  without  some  intervals  of  interruption  from  the 
loose  and  the  vain,  with  which  this  neighbourhood  is  too  much 
disturbed.  Alas,  what  has  so  gained  the  ascendency  in  and  over 
the  mind  of  man,  as  to  cause  him  to  delight  and  take  pleasure  in 
■wickedness. 

Fifth  day.  Was  our  preparative  meeting,  in  which  the  over- 
seers brought  forward  information  against  one  of  our  members,  a 
yoimg  man,  for  deviations  from  plainness,  and  being  guilty  of 
attending  horse  races,  and  suflTering  his  horse  to  run  for  a  wager  ; 
all  which  manifest  a  very  thoughtless  disposition,  and  much 
vanity  of  mind,  very  unworthy  the  least  member  in  our  commu- 
nity. The  meeting  felt  tenderly  for  him,  as  he  had  not  had  a 
guarded  education ;  he  being  left  an  orphan,  when  small,  by  the 
death  of  his  father.    In  considering  his  condition,  I  was  induced 


172 


JOURNAL  OP 


to  enlist  myself  voluntarily  in  the  meeting's  service,  to  pay  him 
a  visit;  and  the  meeting  added  another  Friend  to  join  me  therein. 
I  was  likewise  engaged  in  the  meeting  for  worship,  to  call  Friends' 
attention  to  the  necessity  of  greater  purification  both  in  body, 
soul,  and  spirit ;  as  the  only  medium  through  which  we  could 
gain  an  inheritance  m  tlie  kingdom  of  heaven.  I  showed  by 
the  analogy  of  reason,  that  a  purified  soul  could  not  be  content 
to  inhabit  a  polluted  body;  and  that  if  the  inside  was  made  clean, 
the  outside  would  be  clean  also ;  and  that  true  and  genuine 
Christianity  will  lead  to  cleanliness  in  our  persons,  in  our  houses, 
and  in  all  our  concerns.  All  this  will  proceed  from  real  love  and 
duty  to  our  Ci  eator,  and  not  from  any  germ  of  pride,  or  vainly 
to  make  a  show,  but  fiom  a  real  desire  of  effecting  holiness  in 
the  fear  of  the  Lord. 

First  day,  the  13th.  A  comfortable  meeting  to-day,  mostly 
in  silence,  but  closed  with  solemn  supplication,  wherein  I 
was  led  to  set  forth  how  our  gracious  and  beneficent  Creator, 
although  he  sees  all  our  wants,  and  stands  always  disposed, 
before  we  ask  him,  to  redress  all  our  real  grievances,  and  dispense 
good  to  us  whenever  he  finds  us  in  a  condition  fit  to  receive : 
yet  as  he  is  a  God  of  justice  and  truth,  he  delights  to  see  his 
people  and  children  grateful  and  humbly  sensible  of  their  depend- 
ence on  him  for  every  blessing ;  therefoie,  he  permits  them,  at 
times,  when  he  sees  meet  to  influence  their  minds  thereto,  to 
approach  his  sacred  presence  in  humble  and  devout  prayer,  and 
which  also  affords  to  those  who  are  thus  devoted,  sweet  and 
heavenly  consolation  and  joy. 

I  passed  this  week  mostly  at  home  overseeing'  my  temporal 
concerns.  Attended  our  monthly  meeting  on  fifth  day,  at  which 
we  received  information,  from  the  women's  meeting,  of  the  depar- 
ture of  one  of  our  members,  a  young  woman,  who  had  gone  out 
in  her  marriage  with  one  not  a  ihember,  whom  they  concluded 
ought  to  be  disowned ;  with  which  the  men's  meeting  concuned. 
This  is  a  weakness  among  our  young  members,  which  is,  in 
general,  very  pernicious  in  its  consequences,  and  too  often  hap- 
pens through  the  neglect  of  care  and  right  concern  in  parents 
and  guardians,  who,  for  want  of  living  near  the  truth,  and  under 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


173 


right  religious  engagements  themselves,  are  too  often  led  away 
to  seek  after  riches  for  their  children,  and  are  more  desirous  that 
their  children  should  obtain  companions  who  are  wealthy  and 
rich  in  this  world's  treasure,  than  such  as  are  tmly  religious  and 
virtuous.  Thus  a  foundation  is  often  laid,  by  such  indiscreet 
parents,  for  many  very  unhappy  connexions,  by  which  the  reli- 
gious improvement  and  advancement  of  their  tender  offspring  is 
often  entirely  intercepted  and  prevented,  and  their  prospects  of 
temporal  comfort  and  joy  rendered  aljortive ;  and  they  have  to 
drag  out  a  miserable  existence  until  death  dissolves  their  obli- 
gations. 

First  day,  the  20th.  As  I  sat  in  our  meeting  my  mind  was 
brought  under  exercise  in  taking  a  view  of  the  life  of  Solomon, 
that  wise  king  of  Israel,  as  deUneated  by  his  own  pen  ;  and  from 
which  we  learn  the  msignificaiice  of  all  consolation  and  joy 
which  have  their  source  in  temporal  and  mortal  things,  as  they 
must  and  will  end,  in  vanity  and  vexation  of  spirit :  and  that  to 
fear  God  and  keep  his  commandments,  is  not  only  the  whole 
duty  of  man,  but  likewise  the  only  blessed  and  eternal  source  of 
all  true  joy  and  never  ending  felicity.  The  subject  spread  on 
my  mind  and  led  to  communication,  in  which  I  endeavoured,  in 
the  abihty  afforded,  by  persuasive  arguments,  to  engage  the  minds 
of  the  auditory,  both  old  and  young,  in  the  pursuit  of  that  invalua- 
ble treasure  that  waxeth  not  old,  but  endureth  for  ever,  which 
will  bring  true  joy  to  the  immortal  soul  and  adds  no  soirow. 

Nothing  particular  occurred  in  the  course  of  this  week,  except 
that  a  care  and  fear  attended  ni}'^  iTiind,  lest  the  cares  of  this  world 
and  the  increase  of  temporal  things  might  too  much  interrupt,  and 
intrude,  upn  my  spiritual  concerns  ;  for  riches  are  ever  deceitful, 
and  always  promise  more  than  they  have  in  their  power  to  perform. 

First  day,  the  27th.  Feehng  my  mind  inclined  to  sit  with 
Friends  at  Bethpage  to  day,  I  yielded  to  the  motion  and  attended 
their  meeting ;  and  althougli  I  had  not  a  great  deal  to  commu- 
nicate, yet  what  I  had,  appeared  to  reach  home  to  many  minds, 
and  rendered  it  a  comfortable  meetuag,  not  only  to  myself,  but  to 
the  assembly  in  general.  The  subject  which  opened  for  com- 
munication was  the  necessity  and  excellency  of  integrity  ;  and 


174  JOURNAL  OF 

that  although  we  might  be  so  wise  and  knowing  as  to  compre- 
hend all  knowledge,  yet  if  we  were  destitute  of  integrity  and 
sincerity  of  heart,  we  should  but  share  the  fate  of  fools  at  last, 
and  be  not  a  whit  better  for  all  our  wisdom  and  knowledge. 

Second,  third,  and  fourth  days.  Spent  in  close  attention  to 
my  temporal  concerns,  the  care  for  which,  and  for  their  right 
ordering,  is  constantly  necessary ;  insomuch  that  I  often  wonder 
how  it  is,  that  I  sometimes  hear  people  say,  they  seem  at  a  loss 
how  to  spend  their  time ;  when  not  only  my  temporal,  but  in  an 
especial  manner  my  spiritual  concerns,  are  always  urgent  and 
pressing  ;  so  that  I  find  not  a  moment  to  be  idle :  so  true  is  that 
declaration  of  the  Most  High  verified  :  "  In  the  sweat  of  thy  face 
shall  thou  eat  bread,  till  thou  return  unto  the  ground ;  for  out 
of  it  wast  thou  taken  :  for  dust  thou  art  and  unto  dust  shalt  thou 
return."  The  wise  man  also  saith :  "All  things  are  full  of 
labour"  therefore  we  ought  not  to  repine  or  murmur  at  our  lot,  but 
receive  all,  as  at  the  hand  of  the  Lord  with  thanksgiving. 

Fifth,  sixth,  and  seventh  days.  I  attended  three  funerals,  one 
on  each  day  successively.  The  first  was  a  very  ancient  female, 
upwards  of  ninety  years  of  age,  belonging  to  Westbury  meeting. 
We  had  a  solemn  meeting  on  the  occasion,  in  which  trqth  favoured, 
opening  suitable  doctrine,  and  bringing  it  home  to  the  states  of 
those  present,  who  were  mostly  Friends.  The  hidden  things 
of  Esau,  or  the  first  nature,  and  the  secret  lurking  places  of  self, 
Avere  searched  out  and  exposed  ;  for  which  my  mind,  with  the 
honest-hearted  present,  was  made  glad  in  the  Lord,  and  in  the 
apparent  working  of  his  power  and  wisdom.  The  two  last 
were  not  members  of  our  society,  but  were  favourably  disposed 
to  Friends.  They  were  seasons  of  favoiu".  A  meeting,  was 
held  at  each,  and  both  largely  attended  by  the  neighbouring 
inhabitants.  The  doctrines  delivered  were  well  adapted  to  the 
conditions  of  the  hearers,  and  were  brought  home  to  many  minds 
in  the  demonstration  of  truth,  breaking  and  contriting  many 
hearts  ;  and  thanksgiving  and  praises  were  returned  to  the 
Shepherd  of  Israel,  as  a  tribute  of  gratitude  for  such  unmerited 
mercies. 

First  day,  the  3d  of  4th  month.    Our  meeting  to-day  was 


* 


ELIAS  HICKSj. 


175 


favoured  with  the  overshadowing  wing  of  divine  truth,  and  its 
power  exalted  over  all,  contriting  and  comforting  many  minds. 
But  alas,  what  small  advancements  are  made  by  many  of  those 
who  are  often  dug  about  and  w^atered  by  the  compassionate 
Shepherd  of  Israel,  whose  mercy  is  still  eminently  dispensed  to 
man,  the  workmanship  of  his  holy  hand. 

I  attended  two  funerals  in  the  course  of  this  week,  one  on  fifth 
day,  after  the  sitting  of  our  preparative  meeting,  and  the  other  on 
sixth  day.  Both  were  young  men  in  the  prime  of  life.  The 
latter  uainarried,  and  was  a  relation  to  my  wife.  His  parents 
had  a  healtJiful  family  of  children,  and  had  never  met  with  the 
like  trial  before.  It  was  therefore  a  very  affecting  scene  both  to 
them  and  their  children  ;  they  having  Ijeen  before  favoured  with 
almost  an  unbroken  scene  of  worldly  prosperity,  which  made  the 
wound  sink  deeper.  We  had  a  very  solemn  meeting  on  the 
ocaision,  wherein  I  was  largely  opened  to  preach  the  gospel  in 
the  demonstration  of  truth ;  and  among  other  things  to  show  to 
the  people,  the  necessity  and  sure  felicity  of  an  early  preparation 
for  death  ;  and  that  God  was  the  alone  proper  object  for  man  to 
set  his  heart  and  affections  upon.  The  auditory  were  mostly 
not  in  membership  with  Friends.  Many  of  them  were  much 
broken  and  contrited,  and  a  general,  and  very  precious  solemnity 
was  spread  over  the  meeting.  The  hearts  of  many  were  made 
glad,  from  a  sense  of  the  Lord's  continued  and  unmerited  good- 
ness and  mercy  to  the  children  of  men  ;  still  showing  his  unwil- 
lingness that  any  should  die  in  their  sins,  and  that  all  might 
repent,  turn  to  him  and  live. 

First  day,  the  10th.  I  had  a  hard  suffering  meeting  to-day, 
in  which  I  witnessed  not  only  deep  inward  poverty,  but  had  to 
struggle  with  unprofitable  thoughts,  with  very  little  abihty  to 
maintain  the  warfare ;  yet,  under  the  consideration  that  it  was 
altogether  as  good,  if  not  better,  than  my  deserts  could  justly 
require,  I  was  preserved  from  murmuring  or  complaining  at  my 
lot,  being  veiling  to  receive  evil  as  well  as  good,  at  the  hand  of 
my  gracious  and  compassionate  Lord,  when  he  sees  meet  to  per- 
mit or  dispense  it.  "  Shall  we  receive  good  at  the  hand  of  God, 
and  shall  we  not  evil  ?" 


m 


JOURNAL  OF 


The  rest  of  this  week  was  principally  occupied  in  a  close 
application  to  my  temporal  concerns,  except  attending  our 
monthly  and  select  preparative  meetings,  which  came  at  this 
time.  My  beUef  was  similar  to  the  apostle's,  that  he  who  is  not 
carefully  industrious  to  laljour  for  his  own  and  household's  com- 
fortable support,  may  be  considered  to  have  denied  the  faith,  and 
is  worse  than  an  infidel ;  as  they  are  generally  careful  on  those 
accomits. 

First  day,  the  17tli.  The  meeting  to-day  was  pretty  open  and 
comfortable.  The  rest  of  the  week  was  mostly  taken  up  in 
attending  our  quarterl}-  meetuig,  held  at  New- York  at  this  time.  * 

First  day,  the  24th.    Sat  our  meeting  mostly  in  silence. 

Second,  third,  and  fourth  days.  Were  taken  up  prmcipally 
in  caring  for  my  temporal  concerns.  Alas,  how  much  precious 
tune  is  expended  for  the  accommodation  of  those  houses  of  clay, 
wliich  must  shortly  return  to  the  dust  from  whence  they  were 
taken ;  and  which  often  burden,  and  too  much  indispose  the 
mind  for  heavenly  and  spiritual  meditations,  imless  carefiilly 
watched  and  strongly  guarded  against. 

Fifth  da}-.  I  was  wholly  silent  in  our  meeting  to-day  ;  in  the 
course  of  which  I  had  full  evidence  of  the  truth  of  that  sa\TUg  of 
the  great  Master,  that  of  ourselves,  without  luin,  we  can  do 
nothing. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Were  accompanied  with  heart 
searchings.  discouragement,  and  dismay ;  in  which  I  \\'itnessed 
the  tmth  of  that  saymg,  that  vain  is  the  help  of  man,  whose 
efforts  often  tend  more  to  suUy  and  weaken,  than  to  brighten 
and  strengthen  the  minds  of  those  they  strive  to  help.  This  is 
principally  o-n-ing  to  tlieir  dwelling  on  the  surface,  and  judging 
from  the  outward  appearance,  instead  of  digging  deep  in  search 
of  the  mind  of  truth,  which  only  can  enable  to  judge  with  righ- 
teous judgment. 

First  day,  the  1st  of  5th  month.  Sat  oiu-  meetmg  in  silence, 
and  in  much  poverty  of  spirit ;  and  when  the  season  for  closing 
the  meeting  seemed  near  at  hand,  I  looked  over  the  assembly, 
which  was  pretty  large,  with  a  degree  of  sympathy  and  commi- 
seration, which  brought  to  my  remembrance  the  compassionate 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


saying  of  our  Lord  to  his  disciples,  on,  as  I  apprehended,  a  simi- 
lar occasion,  viz :  "  If  I  send  them  away  fasting  to  their  own 
houses,  they  will  faint  by  the  way."  This  put  a  stop  to  my  mind 
with  regard  to  closing  the  meeting;  and  as  I  knew  I  had  nothing 
to  give,  I  looked  around  to  see  what  was  to  be  done.  A  fiiend 
then  stood  up  with  something  comparable  to  the  five  loaves  and 
the  two  fishes,  which  were  found  formerly  in  the  lad's  basket. 
As  they  were  broken,  she  handed  them  to  the  company,  until  all 
appeared  satisfied  ;  for  which  I  was  thankful. 

Seventh  day.  The  week  hath  passed  away.  Oh  time,  pre- 
cious tmie,  how  swift  thou  passest  on,  by  us  almost  unenjoyed 
and  unimproved  !  How  soon  thou  wilt  land  thy  travelling  pil- 
grim in  the  house  appointed  for  all  living ;  where,  oh  my  soul, 
thqu  knowest  there  is  no  repentance  nor  amendment  known ! 
Prepare  then,  oh  prepare,  for  thy  final  change  ! 

First  day,  the  8th  of  5th  month.  A  poor  silent  meeting  imtil 
near  the  close,  when  a  little  light  sprang  up  and  dispelled  the 
darkness,  and  sweetened  all  the  bitter.  By  such  things  we  are 
instructed,  and  learn  to  know  our  dependent  state,  and  that  it  is 
the  Lord's  doings,  and  marvellous  in  our  eyes. 

Nothing  uncommon  transpired  in  the  course  of  this  week, 
save  as  usual,  bonds  and  afflictions  for  the  gospel's  sake,  spiritu- 
ally and  inwardly  experienced,  await  me ;  from  a  view  and 
sense  of  the  spread  of  evil,  and  the  great  want  of  faithful  testi- 
mony-bearers in  society ;  and  the  languor  and  weakness  which 
abound ;  that  I  am  sometimes  almost  involuntarily  led  to  cry, 
alas  for  the  day- 
First  day,  the  15th.  My  mind  was  deeply  exercised  in  our 
meeting  to-day  on  divers  important  subjects,  and  largely  led  forth 
in  communication :  but  for  want  of  a  more  full  openness  and 
preparation  in  the  auditory  to  receive,  the  labour  was  arduous 
and  exercising,  yet  I  trust  profitable  to  some. 

The  rest  of  the  week  was  employed  in  my  usual  attention  to 
my  necessary  temporal  concerns,  and  an  unfailing  attention  to 
those  of  a  reUgious  nature.  Our  montlily  meeting  was  held  this 
week.  The  meeting  for  Ministers  and  Elders  belonging  to  the 
yearly  meeting  was  held  on  seventh  day,  at  the  tenth  hour, 

23 


178 


JOURNAL  OF 


which  my  wife  and  myself  attended.  It  was,  I  think,  in  a  good 
degree  a  favoured  time;  as  were  the  pubhc  meetings  on  first  day, 
both  forenoon  and  afternoon.  On  second  day  the  yearly  meeting 
for  discipline  opened  at  the  tenth  hour,  and  continued  by  adjourn- 
ments until  fifth  day  evening.  It  was  for  the  most  part  a  com- 
fortable profitable  season,  evidencing  in  the  several  sittings,  that 
the  Lord  had  not  forsaken  his  people,  but  was  still  graciously 
manifesting  his  presence  and  power  for  our  comfort  and  help,  in 
ordering  the  affairs  of  the  Chmch.  On  sixth  day  Friends  turned 
their  faces  towards  home,  where  I  arrived  at  evening  with  m)^ 
wife  and  two  youngest  daughters,  who  constitute  my  present 
family,  except  servants. 

The  next  day  I  felt  myself  in  a  cheerful  readiness  to  put  my 
hands  to  whatever  they  found  to  do,  as  right  to  be  done. 

First  day,  the  29th.  Felt  myself  so  much  indisposed  with  a 
cold  and  considerable  pain  of  body,  as  to  be  prevented  from  at- 
tending our  meeting  to-day  ;  in  reflecting  thereon,  and  how  very 
seldom  I  had  been  thus  prevented  for  many  years  past,  my  mind 
was  filled  with  gratitude  and  thankfulness  to  our  gracious  Helper 
and  Preserver,  for  the  portion  of  bodily  health  allotted  me  in  the 
course  of  his  divine  providence  ;  whereby,  I  have  been  almost 
invariably  of  abihty  of  Ijody  for  a  number  of  years,  to  attend  all 
oiu'  reUgious  meetings,  which  I  consider  and  number  among  our 
chiefest  blessings  and  benefits. 

The  latter  end  of  this  week  I  joined  our  friend  Wilham  Flan- 
ner,  who  was  here  on  a  religious  visit  from  Ohio ;  and  attended 
a  number  of  meetings  in  divers  places,  where  no  meetings  of  our 
society  were  held.  I  had  had  a  prospect  of  visiting  those  places 
some  time  before.  We  were  out  three  days  and  attended  five 
meetings.  The  first  was  with  Fiiends  at  Bethpage,  the  rest 
among  people  inclining  to  Friends,  and  those  of  other  professions. 
They  were,  I  think,  aU  favoured  seasons.  The  Lord's  presence 
and  power  were  manifested  for  our  help,  furnishing  ability  to 
minister  suitably  to  the  different  states  of  the  people,  in  the  de- 
monstration of  the  spirit.  Many  hearts  were  humbled  and  con- 
trited,  and  the  assembhes  solemnized,  and  truth  raised  into 
dominion  over  all ;  and  our  hearts  were  made  glad  under  an 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


179 


humbling  sense  of  the  continuation  of  the  Lord's  mercy  and 
compassion,  still  extended  to  the  children  of  men.  We  returned 
home  on  first  day  evening,  the  5th  of  6th  month. 

The  three  following  days  I  was  about  home,  mostly  employed 
in  my  temporal  concerns. 

On  sixth  day  attended  the  funeral  of  a  friend  of  Westbury 
meeting.  It  was  a  solemn  time,  in  which  1  found  it  my  place 
to  be  an  example  of  silence.  Seventh  day  spent  at  home.  On 
first  day,  the  12th  of  6th  month,  I  attended  two  meetings,  by 
appointment,  among  those  not  of  our  society.  One  in  the  morn- 
ing at  Cold  Spring,  and  the  other  at  four  o'clock  in  the  afternoon 
at  Huntington.  They  were  both  seasons  of  extensive  labour, 
and  I  hope  profitable  to  some ;  and  productive  of  peace  to  my  own 
mind. 

On  second  day  I  went  to  New- York  in  order  to  attend  the 
meeting  for  sufferings,  which  I  accordingly  attended  the  next 
day,  and  returned  home  at  evening.  On  fourth  day  attended  to 
my  temporal  concerns  with  usual  industry. 

Fifth  day  attended  our  monthly  meeting,  at  which  several 
matters  occurred  producing  exercise  to  my  mind,  which  led  to  a 
couununication  of  prospects ;  and  although  some  diversity  of 
sentiment  was  expressed,  yet  I  was  favoured  so  to  unfold  the 
subjects,  that  they  were  concluded  in  a  general  unity. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Spent  in  attending  to  my  usual 
affairs. 

First  day,'the  19th  of  6th  month.  I  was  led  in  our  meeting 
to-day,  to  set  forth  the  excellency  of  real  poverty  of  spirit ;  as  it 
is  that  only,  which  can  produce  that  truly  humble  state,  to  which 
the  blessing  is  annexed. 

I  Fifth  day.  As  I  was  sitting  in  our  meeting  enjoying  the 
especial  advantages  which  arc  attached  to  silent  meetings,  when 
the  mind  is  silently  prostrated  at  the  throne  of  grace,  and  helped 
to  be  sequestered  from  all  intruding  thoughts,  and  wholly  cen- 
tered in  and  upon  Jehovah,  the  alone  ol>ject  of  worship  and  ado- 
ration; a  subject  opened  and  spread  in  a  Avay  which  led  to 
communication ;  in  which  I  had  to  show,  that  there  were  but  two 
proper  motives  or  inducements  for  our  rightly  attending  religious 


180 


JOURNAL  OP 


meetings.  The  first  related  to  such  as  were  unbehevers,  or  those 
who  were  ignorant  of  the  right  way  of  worshipping  God  in  and 
under  the  dispensation  of  the  gospel,  which  according  to  our 
Lord's  declaration  to  the  woman  of  Samaria,  is  only  to  be  per- 
formed in  spirit  and  in  truth.  The  principal  benefit  to  these, 
is  to  be  informed  and  instructed ;  for  which  more  especially, 
the  Lord  hath  ordained  a  ministry  in  his  Church,  by  means  of 
instruments  rightly  qualified  therefor,  by  the  baptismal  influence 
of  the  Holy  Ghost.  The  second  relates  to  such  as  are  already 
instructed  and  informed,  whose  judgments  are  convinced,  and 
whose  motive  as  it  relates  to  themselves  is,  to  meet  together  to 
wait  upon  and  worship  God  in  spirit  and  in  truth,  without  any 
regard  or  consideration  to  any  external  ministry  or  means  what- 
ever :  as  it  is  only  in  a  state  of  entire  sequestration  from  every 
thing  of  an  outward  or  external  nature,  that  the  soul  is  per- 
mitted to  enter  into  the  holy  place,  not  made  with  hands ;  and 
admitted  into  the  immediate  presence  of  Jehovah,  and  rendered 
capable  of  worshipping  him,  in  spirit  and  in  truth,  as  the  gospel 
requires. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Spent  in  my  usual  vocation  as  a 
farmer. 

First  day,  the  26th  of  6th  month.  Attended  two  meetings  by 
appointment,  among  those  principally  not  of  our  society.  The 
first  was  held  in  a  Friend's  house  at  a  place  called  the  Half 
HoUow  Hills.  The  latter  at  the  fourth  hour  in  the  afternoon,  at 
a  village  called  New  Babylon,  in  the  township  of  Huntington. 
It  was  held  in  a  school-house,  and  was  a  large  meeting,  mostly 
of  the  Presbyterian  persuasion.  The  people  behaved  very  soberly, 
becoming  the  occasion.  It  was  a  very  solemn  favoured  season  ; 
many  hearts  were  contrited  and  made  thankful  for  the  opportu- 
nity ;  and  my  heart  was  much  enlarged  in  love  to  the  assembly. 
I  trust  I  felt  a  mutual  return  of  the  same  feeling  from  most 
present,  for  which  I  was  made  thankful  to  the  Shepherd  of 
Israel ;  and  for  the  continuation  of  his  gracious  regard  in  mani- 
festing his  presence,  and  making  bare  his  ai  m,  for  the  help  of 
his  devoted  servants  ;  showing  himself  indeed  to  be  a  God  near 
at  hand,  and  a  present  helper  in  the  needfiU  time,  worthy  to  be 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


181 


praised  and  adored  by  the  children  of  men,  throughout  all  ages, 
world  without  end. 

The  rest  of  this  week  I  spent  mostly  about  home,  being  closely 
engaged  in  making  hay,  which  for  want  of  suitable  help,  made  it 
necessary  for  me  to  labour  myself,  beyond  what  seemed  suitable 
for  one  of  my  age  ;  but  I  felt  peace  of  mind  in  so  doing,  although 
I  suffered  some  pain  of  body,  as  the  result  of  my  exertion. 

First  day,  the  3d  of  7th  month.  Sat  our  meeting  in  silence. 
At  the  third  hour  in  the  afternoon  attended  the  fimeral  of  a 
deceased  neighbour.  Although  my  mind  was  brought  under 
some  exercise,  which  led  to  communication;  yet  I  found  very 
httle  reUef,  owing,  as  I  apprehended,  to  the  prevalence  of  a  liber- 
tine spirit  in  many  present.  For  these  are  generally  disposed  to 
mock  at,  and  ridicule  every  thing  serious,  or  that  has  the  appear- 
ance of  rehgion  and  godliness  :  rebellious  children  who  hate  the 
light,  because  their  deeds  are  evil,  and  who  take  more  delight  in 
revellin<T  and  drunkenness  than  in  the  fear  of  the  Lord.  I  often 
feel  sad  for  such  as  these,  and  my  mind  goes  clotlied  as  it  were 
with  sackcloth,  unseen  by  the  world.  O,  when  wiU  they  be 
awakened  to  a  right  sense  of  their  miserable  condition !  I  often 
fear  that  some  of  them  have  nearly  sinned  out  their  day  ;  and  to 
whom  the  scripture  declaration  will  apply :  "  He  that,  being  often 
reproved,  hardeneth  his  neck,  shall  suddenly  be  destroyed,  and 
that  without  remedy." 

Second,  third  and  fourth  days.  Busily  employed  in  my  hus- 
bandry concerns,  with  my  mind  clothed  with  peace  towards  all 
men,  and  witfi  hope  towards  God  my  Saviour  :  and  comforted 
at  times  in  the  rememljrance  of  that  apostolic  declaration,  where 
it  is  asserted:  "  We  know  that  we  have  passed  from  death  vmto 
life,  because  we  love  the  brethren." 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  meeting  in  silence,  the  fire  being 
low  on  the  altar. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Closely  engaged  in  making  and 
securing  hay  for  the  accommodation  of  my  stock  the  ensuing 
winter ;  as  I  consider  it  a  duty  to  provide  plenty  of  good  proven- 
der for  them,  so  as  to  render  their  lives  as  comfortable  as  may  be, 
whilst  under  my  care. 


182 


JOURNAL  OP 


First  day,  the  lOtli.  As  I  sat  in  our  meeting  to-day,  my 
mind  was  led  into  a  consideration  and  prospect  of  the  excel- 
lency and  aniiableness  of  justice,  and  of  the  vast  advantage 
which  would  accrue  to  the  children  of  men  by  a  strict  adherence 
thereto ;  as  it  would  greatly  tend  to  regulate  our  conduct,  Ijoth 
as  it  relates  to  our  duty  to  God  our  creator,  and  also  to  man,  our 
fellow  creature  :  and  therefore  ought  to  be  the  governing  principle 
and  main  spring  of  all  our  conduct,  as  well  m  our  temporal,  as 
in  our  spiritual  concerns.  The  subject  spread  and  enlarged  and 
opened  to  commmiication ;  and,  I  tiTJst,  proved  an  instructive 
comfortable  season  to  some  present ;  and  I  felt  a  reward  of  peace 
in  my  labour. 

Second  day.  Attended  the  funeral  of  a  deceased  neighbour, 
who  was  not  a  member  of  our  society,  but  being  convinced 
of  our  principles,  and  inclined  to  Friends,  the  family  desired  a 
meeting  might  be  held,  Avhich  was  accordingly  agreed  to.  It 
was  a  large  collection  of  people  of  various  denominations,  and  a 
considerable  ninnber  of  the  looser  sort.  I  had  an  open  favoured 
time  among  them,  in  which  the  power  of  truth  rose  into  dominion 
over  all,  humbling  and  contriting  many  hearts,  and  a  general 
solemnity  was  felt  to  cover  the  meeting  to  the  praise  of  Him,  who 
is  over  aU,  God  blessed  for  ever. 

Third  and  fourth  days.  Occupied  in  my  usual  concerns,  but 
did  not  feel  that  full  peace  of  mind  with  my  foiuth  day's  exercise 
that  is  generally  my  experience,  owing,  as  I  apprehended,  to  a 
want  of  a  more  full  attention  to  a  small  intimation  respecting 
that  day's  employment.  Remember,  oh  my  soul!  that  all  thy 
success  in  temporals,  as  well  as  all  thy  sweet  inward  heavenly 
consolations,  depend  upon  thy  faithfulness  and  leady  submission 
to  those  inward  divine  intimations ;  although  sometimes  small, 
they  ought  to  be  considered  by  thee,  binding  and  obligatory,  as 
the  only  source  from  whence  all  thy  true  peace  and  joy  are 
derived. 

Fifth  day.  This  was  our  preparative  meeting,  and  as  it  was 
the  one  preceding  the  quarterly  meeting,  the  queries  were  read  and 
answered ;  but  I  apprehended  in  a  way  not  tending  to  much 
profit,  either  by  reason  of  one  or  two  improper  questions  being 


ELIAS  HICKS.  183 

added  to  the  queries  of  late,  which  to  many  Friends  appeared 
inconsistent  to  be  answered  ;  or  from  the  want  of  a  more  hvely 
spiritual  exercise  with  the  members  ;  or  both  might  have  had  a 
share  in  producing  a  dull  distressing  season.  No  way  seemed  to 
open  for  any  relief,  so  we  had  patiently  to  bear  it.  And  indeed 
I  thought  it  required  a  large  share  of  patience  to  sit  the  meeting 
through  without  murmuring ;  the  chariot  wheels  seemed  to  go 
very  heavily  on,  as  though  almost  sunk  in  the  slough  of  despond ; 
but  we  did  what  we  could,  and  so  left  the  matter ;  and  I  returned 
home  with  a  heavy  heart,  and  was  preserved,  I  trust,  from  mur- 
muring at  my  lot. 

Sixth  day.  Spent  in  gathering  in  my  harvest  and  some  other 
small  exercises.  The  day  closed  with  a  quiet  and  peaceful  mind. 
What  a  paradise  it  is  when  this  is  our  lot. 

Seventh  day.  Visited  two  Friends  who  were  under  some 
bodily  infirmity.  ^The  visits  were  mutually  comfortable.  Such 
opportunities,  when  rightly  conducted,  tend  to  the  increase  of 
friendship  and  mutual  love. 


184  JOURNAL  OP 


CHAPTER  VIII. 

Visit  to  Purchase,  and  engagements  at  and  about  home,  1814. 

First  day,  the  17th  of  7th  mouth,  1814.  Feeling  my  mind 
drawn  to  sit  with  Friends  in  their  meeting  at  Westbury,  I  yielded 
to  the  motion.  It  proved  an  exercising  meeting — but  httle 
life  to  be  felt :  nevertheless,  way  opened  for  a  short  communica- 
tion, pointing  particularly  to  the  state  of  the  meeting,  which  I 
hope  was  profitable  to  some.  At  the  third  hour  in  the  afternoon, 
I  attended  the  funeral  of  a  very  ancient  woman  of  this  neigh- 
bourhood, not  a  member  of  our  society ;  but  the  family  desiring 
the  company  of  Friends,  a  number  collected  with  others.  It 
proved  a  pretty  solemn  time.  My  mind  was  led  to  open  to  the 
assembly,  the  especial  advantages  which  w^ould  result  to  us,  as 
rational  accountable  beings,  by  a  tunely  preparation  for  death ; 
and  that  it  was  our  especial  duty,  as  well  as  our  best  interest,  to 
make  it,  at  all  times,  the  primary  object  of  our  concern. 

Second,  third,  and  fourth  days.  Spent  prmcipally  in  family 
cares  and  my  husbandry  concerns.  What  a  favour  it  is  for 
such  an  active  creatiu"e  as  man,  possessed  of  such  powers  of 
body  and  mind,  always  to  have  some  employment,  and  some- 
thing for  those  powers  to  act  upon  :  for  otherwise  they  would  be 
useless  and  dormant,  and  afford  neither  profit  nor  delight. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  monthly  meeting.  It  was  an  exer- 
cising season,  especially  the  meeting  for  worship,  which  I  think 
was  much  hurt  by  the  connnunication  of  a  Friend  in  the  minis- 
try, who  was  this  day  with  us.  It  was  attended  with  so  much 
mere  creaturely  warmth  and  animation,  as  to  render  it  unaccepta- 
ble, and,  as  I  apprehended,  hurtfid  to  the  meeting,  and  the  cause 
it  was  intended  to  advance.    What  a  pity  it  is  that  any  who 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


185 


apprehend  themselves  called  to  this  very  important  work,  shovdd 
make  such  grievous  mistakes,  and  wound  the  minds  of  the  Uving 
sensible  members. 

Sixth  day.  Attended  our  select  preparative  meeting  of  Minis- 
ters and  Elders.  It  was,  I  think,  a  season  of  profitable  exercise, 
in  which  some  of  the  hidden  things  of  Esau,  or  the  first  nature, 
were  searched  out  and  exposed. 

Seventh  day.  Laboured  hard  in  my  harvest  field ;  and, 
although  sixty-six  years  of  age,  I  found  I  could  wield  the 
scythe  nearly  as  in  the  days  of  my  youth.  It  was  a  day  of 
thankful  and  delightful  contemplation.  My  heart  was  filled 
with  thankfulness  and  gratitude  to  the  blessed  Author  of  my 
existence,  in  a  consideration  of  his  providential  care  over  me,  in 
preserving  me  in  health,  and  in  the  possession  of  my  bodily 
powers  ;  the  exercise  of  which  were  still  affording  me  both  profit 
ajid  dehght :  and  I  was  doubly  thankful  for  the  continued  exer- 
cise of  my  mental  faculties,  not  only  in  instructing  me  how  to 
exert  and  rightly  employ  my  bodily  powers,  in  the  most  useful 
and  advantageous  manner,  but  also  in  contemplating  the  works 
of  nature  and  Providence,  in  the  blessings  and  beauties  of  the 
field ;  a  volume  containing  more  delightful  and  profitable  instruc- 
tion, than  all  the  volumes  of  mere  learning  and  science  in  the 
world. 

What  a  vast  portion  of  the  joys  and  comforts  of  life  do  the  idle 
and  slothful  deprive  themselves  of,  by  running  into  cities  and 
towns,  to  avoid  labouring  in  the  field  ;  not  considering  that  this 
is  one  of  the  principal  sources,  that  the  gracious  Creator  of  the 
universe  has  appointed  to  his  creature  man,  from  whence  he  may 
derive  great  temporal  happiness  and  delight.  It  also  opens  the 
largest  and  best  field  of  exercise  to  the  contemplative  mind,  by 
which  it  may  be  prepared  to  meet,  when  this  mortal  puts  on 
immortality,  those  immortal  joys  that  will  ever  be  the  lot  of  the 
faithfiil  and  industrious. 

First  day,  the  24th  of  7th  month.  I  went  to  our  meeting  to- 
day in  much  poverty  of  spirit,  and  in  full  expectation  of  passing 
it  in  silence ;  but  I  had  not  sat  long  before  my  mind  was  led 
into  a  view  of  the  singular  benefit  derived  to  the  children  of  men, 


186 


JOURNAL  OF 


by  the  denial  of  self,  and  a  daily  and  faithfully  taking  up,  and 
bearing  the  cross ;  as  it  is  the  only  way  by  which  we  can  come 
to  experience  real  sanctification  and  justification.  The  subject 
spread  and  opened  to  communication,  in  which  things  were  laid 
home  to  the  states  of  many  present,  in  a  clear  manner ;  and  the 
danger  of  their  situatigns  exposed.  It  brought  a  solemn  covering 
over  the  meeting,  for  which  I  was  thankful. 

Second  and  third  days.  I  spent  in  securing  my  harvest.  This 
week  being  the  time  of  our  quarterly  meeting,  the  meeting  for 
Ministers  and  Elders  opened  on  fourth  day  at  the  tenth  hour.  It 
was  a  season  of  close  search ;  the  deficiencies  of  Ministers  and 
Elders  w-ere  laid  open ;  and  the  hurtful  tendency  thereof  exposed. 
A  number  appeared  deeply  concerned,  on  account  of  the  prevail- 
ing weakness  of  some  in  those  exalted  stations  in  society.  On 
fifth  day  the  meeting  for  discipline  was  held.  It  was  also  a  very 
searching  time,  a  season  of  deep  exercise  to  my  mind  ;  in  which 
the  hurtful  tendency  of  many  apparent  deficiencies  was  laid  open 
and  exposed  ;  and  Friends  exhorted  to  greater  faithfulness  and 
diligence,  in  the  right  support  of  those  noble  testimonies,  given  us 
to  bear,  for  the  promotion  of  righteousness  and  peace  on  the  earth. 
On  sixth  day  was  a  general  public  meeting,  in  which  my  mind 
was  enlarged  in  gospel  communication,  wherein  truth  was 
exalted  and  raised  into  dominion,  to  the  comfort  and  edification 
of  many  minds  ;  and  to  the  sweet  peace  of  my  own.  After  this 
Friends  separated  to  their  several  homes  in  much  nearness  of 
affection,  and  mutual  love. 

Seventh  day.    Spent  in  my  temporal  concerns. 

First  day,  the  31st  of  7th  month.  A  silent  meeting  to-day, 
for  which  I  was  thankful.  Although  faithfully  labouring  in  the 
Lord's  vineyard  produceth  peace  and  joy  to  the  willing  mind,  even 
should  it  have  to  bear  the  burden  and  heat  of  the  day ;  yet  when 
permitted,  a  season  of  rest  is  also  sweet  and  grateful. 

Having  for  some  days  past  felt  my  mind  inclined  to  attend  the 
ensuing  quarterly  meeting  at  Purchase,  I  spent  most  of  this  week 
in  that  service.  On  second  day  I  left  home,  and  returned  on 
the  following  sixth  day  at  evening.  I  felt  but  httle  satisfaction 
in  this  short  tour  of  duty,  except  in  one  or  two  visits  in  Friends' 


ET.IAS  HICKS. 


187 


families.  Most  of  the  sittings  of  the  quarterly  meeting  seemed  to 
be  clothed  with  great  weakness,  and  some  of  them  distress- 
ingly so. 

Seventh  day.  Exercised  in  my  husbandry  business  ;  and  the 
evening  closed  with  a  peaceful  mind. 

First  day,  the  7th  of  Stli  month.  Felt  so  much  bodily  indis- 
position as  to  prevent  my  attending  meeting;  but  even  this  induced 
thankfulness  and  gratitude,  in  recollecting  how  very  seldom  this 
had  been  my  lot  for  many  years.  Oh  what  shall  I,  a  poor 
worm,  render  unto  the  Lord  for  all  his  benefits  ! 

Second,  tliird,  and  fourth  days.  Spent  principally  in  looking 
to,  and  overseeing,  my  temporal  business ;  and  still  feehng  some 
slight  touches  of  bodily  indisposition,  which  seemed  to  announce 
this  language,  in  imison  with  every  thing  that  is  mortal,  remem- 
her  to  die. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  preparative  meeting :  what  a  privi- 
lege !  the  very  name  points  to  care,  as  saying,  "  Be  ye  therefore 
ready." 

Sixth  day.  Did  as  Peter  and  some  of  his  fellow  disciples, 
when  not  directly  employed  by  their  Master,  but  waiting  and 
watching  for  liis  coming. 

Seventh  day.  Laboured  m  the  field ;  and  the  day  closed  with 
a  quiet  and  peaceful  mind,  which  I  esteem  the  greatest  treasure. 

First  day,  the  14th  of  8th  month.  As  I  sat  in  our  meeting 
to-day,  my  mind  was  impressed  with  the  remembrance  of  the 
declaration  -of  the  prophet  Isaiah,  when  reproving  the  house  of 
Israel,  under  the  similitude  of  a  vineyard,  for  their  backsliding 
and  breach  of  covenant  and  great  wickedness,  which  he  closes  with 
this  notable  saying  :  "  Therefore  hell  hath  enlarged  herself,  and 
opened  her  mouth  without  measure  :  and  their  glory,  and  their 
multitude,  and  their  pomp,  and  he  that  rejoiceth,  shall  descend 
into  it."  He  showed  them  thereby  the  natural  tendency  of  evU, 
and  certain  destruction  of  evil  doers,  who  harden  themselves  in 
sin.  The  subject  opened  and  led  to  a  large  exhortatory  and 
cautionary  communication;  also  setting  forth  the  great  obliga- 
tions of  parents  and  guardians  to  their  tender  offspring  and  chil- 
dren under  their  charge  ;  and  the  incalculable  loss  that  children 


188 


JOURNAL  OP 


sustain  where  parents  and  guardians  neglect  their  duty  in  timely 
care  for  their  right  instruction.  It  was  a  solemn  time,  and  I 
hope  profitable  to  some,  by  stirring  them  up  to  more  diligence. 

The  rest  of  this  week,  except  attending  our  monthly  meeting 
on  fifth  day,  was  spent  in  close  attention  to  my  temporal  concerns. 
The  urgent  necessity  attending  my  present  business  induced 
me  to  labour  beyond  what  my  judgment  approved  ;  which, 
though  somewhat  painful  to  the  body,  was  nevertheless,  I  trust, 
fiee  from  sin. 

First  day,  the  21st  of  8th  month.  A  silent  meeting  to-day, 
which  closed  with  a  peaceful  mind. 

Second,  third,  and  fourth  days.  Passed  without  any  thing 
transpiring  worthy  of  particular  notice. 

Fifth  day.    A  silent  meeting,  as  it  respects  myself. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Spent  in  my  salt-meadows,  about 
ten  miles  from  home  ;  assisting  my  men  in  making  and  securing 
hay.  On  my  return  visited  a  poor  widow,  with  the  surplus  of 
our  provisions,  for  which  she  was  very  thankful. 

First  day,  the  28th.  My  lips,  at  our  meeting  to-day,  were 
closed  in  solemn  silence. 

Second,  third,  and  fourth  days.  Diligently  employed  in  what 
my  hands  found  to  do :  for  I  see  no  time  when  it  would  be  right 
to  indulge  in  idleness. 

Fifth  day.  Sat  our  meeting  in  much  weakness  and  poverty 
of  spirit,  but  felt  peace  at  the  close. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Closely  engaged  in  njy  temporal 
business  ;  but  did  not  forget  my  accountability  to  my  great  Lord 
and  Master,  for  the  right  use  of  every  portion  of  precious  time,  he 
is  pleased  to  dispense  to  me. 

First  day,  the  4th  of  9th  month.  My  mind,  while  sitting  in 
our  meeting  to-day,  was  led  into  a  contemplation  of  the  great  and 
excellent  advantages  resulting  to  those,  who  have  placed  their 
supreme  trust  in  the  arm  of  divine  sufficiency ;  and  while  musing 
thereon,  and  the  manifold  blessings  attendant  on  such  a  state, 
there  was  brought  to  my  remembrance  the  exhortation  of  Solo- 
mon :  "  Trust  in  the  Lord  with  all  thy  heart ;  and  lean  not 
unto  thine  own  understanding."     The  subject  spread,  and 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


189 


opened  to  a  communication,  in  which  the  audience  were  press- 
ingiy  invited  and  encouraged  to  lay  hold  and  make  choice  of 
(his  only  sure  rock  of  refuge,  an  entire  trust  and  confidence  in 
God,  and  in  the  arm  of  his  salvation.  For  those  who  trust  in 
the  name  of  the  Lord,  have  never  been  confounded. 

The  rest  of  this  week  was  spent  in  my  usual  vocations,  except 
attending  our  preparative  meeting  on  fifth  day.  Nothing 
transpired  worthy  of  particular  notice. 

Fust  day,  the  1 1th.  As  I  was  sitting  in  our  meeting  to-day, 
my  mind  was  led  into  a  train  of  solemn  reflection,  from  the  revi- 
val of  these  expressions  of  Christ  to  his  disciples  :  "  In  the  world 
ye  shall  have  tribulation  :  but  be  of  good  cheer,  I  have  overcome 
tjje  world."  An  enlightened  view  was  opened  to  me  of  the  especial 
advantages,  and  deep  consolation,  derived  to  the  true  Christian, 
by  a  firm  belief  therein  :  as  the  expressions  evidently  carry  in 
them  an  earnest  to  the  true  believer,  of  his  being  likewise  enabled 
to  overcome,  as  he  is  faithful  in  treading  in  the  path  of  self-de- 
nial, agreeably  to  his  heavenlj^  pattern.  The  subject  opened 
to  communication,  in  which  the  audience  Avere  pressingly  invited 
and  encouraged  to  enter  earnestly  into  this  most  necessary  and 
interesting  warfare  ;  as  nothing  short  of  overcoming  the  world, 
the  flesh,  and  the  devil,  can  restore  to  us  an  unintermpted  peace, 
and  entitle  us  to  the  white  stone  in  which  the  new  name  is 
written ;  which  none  can  read,  but  he  who  hath  it. 

The  succeeding  days  of  this  week  were  attended  to  as  they 
passed  ;  but  nothing  transpired  unusual.  Our  monthly  meeting 
was  on  fifth  day ;  and  although  we  had  a  pretty  trying  case  be- 
fore us,  yet  we  got  through  without  interruption,  or  any  breach 
of  Christian  harmony. 

First  day,  the  18th  of  9th  month.  A  satisfactoiy  meeting  to- 
day, more  so  than  for  several  weeks  past ;  the  testimony  of  truth 
went  forth  freely,  and,  I  think,  clothed  with  a  good  degree  of 
power  and  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  which  produced  a  peaceful 
and  thankful  mind.  The  rest  of  this  week  I  was  closely  engaged 
in  preparing  my  fallow  ground,  and  sowing  my  wheat  and  rye. 
I  am  willing  to  do  my  part  carefully  and  industriously ;  and  then 
1  can  with  more  confidence,  place  my  trust  and  dependence  on  a 


190 


JOURNAL  OF 


gracious  and  beneficent  Providence,  for  a  blessing  on  my  labour: 
for  if  care  and  industry  be  wanting,  there  is  nothing  for  him  to 
bless. 

First  day,  the  25th.  A  silent  meeting  to-day,  as  to  any  vocal 
conmiunication  ;  but  my  mind  was  too  much  intruded  upon  by 
unprofitable  thoughts,  and  interrupted  by  tlie  unchristian  conmio- 
tions  and  din  of  war,  which  are  at  present  mightily  prevailing 
in  our  land,  and  by  the  frequent  reports  of  blood  and  slaughter 
witnessed  among  professed  human  rational  beings:  but  alas! 
how  inhuman  and  irrational  do  they  prove  and  proclaim  them- 
selves to  be,  who  can  deliberately  imbrue  their  hands  in  each 
other's  blood  for  this  world's  honours  and  profits  ;  and  dare  at  the 
same  lime  to  call  themselves  Christians,  although  so  utterly 
estranged  from  the  real  Christian  spirit  and  life. 

The  remaining  part  of  this  week  spent  in  my  usual  vocations. 

First  day,  the  2d  of  10th  month.  I  was  led,  in  my  commu- 
nication to-day,  to  show  the  unreasonableness  of  some  people,  in 
looking  to,  and  depending  on,  being  made  Christians,  by  the  minis- 
tration of  men,  and  information  derived  from  books  and  writings; 
when,  alas,  the  minist  ration  of  angels  would  be  entirely  insufficient 
for  that  purpose.  The  ministration  of  the  Son  and  sent  of  God, 
even  the  divine  word  that  was  in  the  beginning  with  God,  and 
was  God,  is  only  sufficient  to  effect  that  great  and  blessed  end  : 
and  that,  not  l)y  any  thing  which  he  has  spoken,  commanded, 
or  done  without  us,  but  by  what  he  speaks,  commands,  and 
does  within  us  ;  we  yielding  and  suljmitting  thereto  by  faithful 
obedience.  For  there  is  no  other  way  by  which  any  have  been, 
or  can  be,  made  real  Christians,  or  true,  sincere,  sensible  followers 
of  Christ,  in  spirit  and  life. 

Nothing  unusual  transpired  in  the  course  of  the  remaining 
part  of  this  week. 

First  day,  the  9th.  Whilst  sitting  in  our  meeting  to-day,  there 
was  brought  to  my  remembrance  the  following  portion  of  Paul's 
exhortation  to  his  son  Timothy,  as  recorded  in  his  first  epistle : 
"  For  bodily  exercise  profiteth  little :  but  godliness  is  profitable 
unto  all  things,  having  promise  of  the  life  that  now  is,  and  of 
that  which  is  to  come.    This  is  a  faithful  saying  and  worthy  of 


ELIA8  HICKS. 


191 


all  acceptation.  For  therefore  we  both  labour  and  suffer  reproach, 
because  we  trust  in  the  living  God,  who  is  the  Saviour  of  all 
men,  especially  of  those  that  believe."  The  subject  spread,  and 
my  mind  was  opened  to  take  an  enlightened,  and  enlarged  view 
thereof ;  so  as  to  be  induced  to  believe  that  a  necessity  was  laid 
upon  me  to  conmiunicate  it  to  the  assembly  ;  and  as  I  yielded 
thereto,  it  still  enlarged,  and  led  to  an  open  field  of  doctrine.  I 
was  clothed  with  gospel  authority,  which  produced  a  most  precious 
solemnity  and  calm  over  the  meeting.  It  was  evidently  the 
Lord's  doing,  and  it  was  marvellous  in  my  eyes  ;  and  my  spirit 
was  made  thankful  for  the  renewed,  and  unmerited  mercy  and 
favour. 

Second  and  tliird  days.  Were  spent  in  attending  our  meeting 
for  sufferings,  at  which  information  was  received,  through  one 
of  its  corresponding  members,  that  the  Legislature  of  our  state, 
now  sitting,  were  about  forming  a  bill  to  lay  a  heavy  tax  on  the 
members  of  our  society,  to  be  paid  in  lieu  of  personal  military 
service  ;  which,  if  passed  into  a  laAV,  would  be  likely  to  expose 
many  of  our  members  to  severe  sviffering.  The  subject  brought 
considerable  exercise  over  the  meetmg,  which  led  into  a  discus- 
sion of  our  testimony  against  war ;  in  which  it  appeared  mani- 
fest, that  the  deficiency  of  many  of  our  members,  in  regard  to  a 
right  support  thereof,  tended  to  obstruct,  in  a  very  considerable 
degree,  our  stepping  forward,  consistently  with  the  nature  of 
our  appointment,  to  seek  redress  therein  :  nevertheless,  after  a 
considerable  time  spent  thereon,  and  many  different  prospects 
opened,  the  meeting  so  far  agreed,  as  to  separate  a  committee  of 
six  Friends,  to  pay  especial  attention  to  the  subject :  who  were 
directed  to  proceed  therein,  as  the  necessity  of  the  case  might 
require,  and  way  should  open  for. 

Fourth  day.  Spent  in  assisting  two  of  my  neighbours  to  settle 
their  business ;  and  wrote  a  will  for  each  of  them.  This  is  a 
business  that  every  man  ought  to  attend  to,  and  complete,  in 
time  of  health. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  preparative  meeting,  and  it  being 
the  one  preceding  our  quarterly  meeting,  the  queries  were  to  be 
answered.    As  one  of  the  overseers  was  likely  to  be  necessarily 


m 


JOURNAL  OF 


absent  from  the  preparative  meeting,  they  met  a  day  or  two  pre- 
vious thereto,  and  prepared  essays  of  answers ;  and  the  one  who 
attended,  produced  them  to  the  meeting  at  tlie  time  of  entering 
upon  reading  and  answering  the  queries.  As  I  had  long 
beheved,  from  observation  and  experience,  that  this  method  was 
inconsistent  with  the  nature  of  our  profession,  and  right  order  of 
our  disciphne,  as  well  as  in  its  tendency  very  hurtful  and  weak- 
ening to  the  meeting,  my  mind  was  very  much  exercised  on  the 
occasion  ;  and  the  more  so,  in  finding  several  Friends  willing  to 
adopt  the  practice :  but,  after  the  matter  had  been  pretty  fuUy 
spoken  to,  under  a  weight  of  concern,  Friends  agreed  to  lay  the 
essays  aside,  and  not  notice  them ;  Avhich  was  a  considerable  relief 
to  my  mind. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Passed  without  any  thing  particular 
to  notice. 

First  day,  the  16th.  My  mind  was  brought  under  a  renewed 
exercise  in  our  meeting,  from  a  Ariew  and  consideration  of  the 
very  small  improvement  and  progress  made  by  a  great  portion 
of  our  society  in  religious  experience,  when  compared  with  the 
opportunities  they  were  so  abundantly  favoured  with  from  time 
to  time.  It  led  to  a  communication  on  the  subject,  which  was 
introduced  by  a  revival  of  Paul's  reprehension  of  the  Hebrews : 
"  For  when  for  the  time  ye  ought  to  be  teachers,  ye  have  need 
that  one  teach  you  again  which  be  the  first  principles  of  the 
oracles  of  God  :  and  are  become  such  as  have  need  of  milk,  and 
not  of  strong  meat."  The  subject  spread,  and  brought  a  solemn 
weight  over  the  meeting,  and  Friends  were  pressingly  excited  to 
greater  diligence  in  the  right  unprovement  of  their  precious  time ; 
that  so  when  the  day  of  solemn  inquisition  comes,  they  may  be 
prepared  to  give  in  their  account  with  joy,  and  receive  the  desired 
and  peaceful  answer  of :  "  well  done  thou  good  and  faithfid 
servant ;  thou  hast  been  faithful  over  a  few  things,  I  will  make 
thee  ruler  over  many  things :  enter  thou  into  the  joy  of  thy 
Lord." 

Our  monthly  meeting  was  held  on  fifth  day ;  and,  I  think,  the 
'business  was  well  and  harmoniously  conducted.  The  rest  of 
the  week  I  was  busily  employed  in  my  usual  vocations ;  and 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


193 


divers  things  occurred,  which  induced  gratitude  and  thankfidness 
of  heart  to  the  blessed  Author  of  all  our  mercies. 

First  day,  the  23d.  A  silent  meeting  to-day.  What  a  pre- 
cious thing  it  is,  to  be  taught  to  know  when  to  speak,  and  when 
to  be  silent. 

Our  quarterly  meeting  was  held  this  week  at  Flushing.  It 
was,  I  think,  through  the  several  sittings,  a  searching,  instructive, 
favoured  season.  In  the  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders,  and 
meeting  for  discipline,  many  of  the  hidden  things  of  Esau,  or  the 
first  nature,  were  searched  out  and  made  manifest ;  and  their 
inconsistency  with  the  gospel  dispensation,  and  hui  tful  tendency, 
exposed  ;  particularly  that  of  coveting,  and  grasping  after  riches  ; 
to  obtain  which,  many  of  the  members  of  our  society  had  launched 
into  extensive  business,  more  particularly  in  the  line  of  commerce, 
and,  in  order  to  carry  it  on,  had  involved  themselves  in  debt  be- 
yond their  ability  to  pay  ;  and,  to  keep  up  a  false  credit,  had,  by 
a  show  of  friendship,  and  a  deceptive  appearance  of  having  great 
possessions,  draAvn  in  others  to  lend  them  money,  and  become 
their  sureties  for  large  sums  ;  until  both  the  borrower  and  lender 
were  involved  in  utter  ruin,  to  the  great  scandal  of  themselves, 
the  distress  of  their  families,  and  reproach  of  our  holy  profession. 
Others  there  were,  who,  for  want  of  keeping  close  to  the  founda- 
tion principle  of  our  profession,  the  inward  divine  light,  and  faith- 
ful testimony-bearer  in  the  heart  and  conscience,  had  given  way 
to  busy  themselves,  and  take  a  part  in,  the  political  disputes 
and  controversies  among  the  people,  relative  to  the  governments 
of  this  world ;  which  at  this  time  ran  high,  and  had  produced 
war  and  distress  in  the  land  ;  by  which,  they  not  only  grieved 
their  concerned  Friends,  but  brought  much  reproach  upon  them- 
selves and  their  profession.  My  mind  was  deeply  exercised  on 
account  of  these  things;  and  I  was  constrained  to  bear  a  full  and 
faithful  testimony  against  all  such  inconsistent  and  unchristian 
conduct;  and  to  call  Friends'  attention  to  the  necessity  of  a 
more  close  adherence  to  the  internal  principle  of  divine  light  and 
truth,  as  the  only  sure  Director  and  Preserver,  in  times  of  trial. 

The  closing  meeting,  held  for  worship,  was  eminently  fa- 
voured with  the  Divine  presence ;  and  the  concurring  testimo- 

25 


194 


JOURNAL  OF 


nies  borne,  gave  evidence  of  his  presiding  power ;  and  his  gieai 
name  was  supplicated,  and  gratitude  and  thanksgiving  were 
rendered  to  him  for  his  contmued  mercy. 

First  day,  the  30th.  In  the  forepart  of  our  meeting  to-day, 
my  mind  seemed  clothed  with  gieat  weakness,  and  much  inter- 
rupted by  the  continued  succession  of  imnecessary  and  unprofita- 
ble thoughts:  but  as  I  continued  to  endeavour  to  draw  my 
attention  from  thcrn,  although  to  little  effect,  till  towards  the  close 
of  the  meeting,  my  mind  was  unexpectedly  arrested  with  a 
subject  very  interestmg  to  every  inmiortal  soul,  that  of  coming  to 
believe  in,  and  become  settled  on,  the  eternal  and  imchangeable 
rock  of  salvation,  Christ  the  divine  lights  as  prophesied  of,  not 
only  a?  "  a  light  to  lighten  the  Gentiles,"  but  to  be  God's  salva- 
tion to  the  ends  of  the  earth.  The  subject  spread,  accompanied 
with  life  ;  which,  as  communicated  under  the  influence  thereof, 
spread  over  the  meeting,  and  it.  became  a  comfortable  refreshing 
season.  It  was  evidently  the  Lord's  doing,  and  worthy  of  thank- 
ful acknowledgment,  for  the  umuerited  mercy. 

Second,  third,  and  fourth  days.  Busily  employed  with  my 
workmen,  assisting  them  in  securing  our  corn,  &c.  It  was  a 
bountiful  crop,  which  made  the  labour  pleasant,  and  the  heart 
thankful. 

Fifth  day.  At  our  meeting  to-day,  which  was  larger  than 
usual,  occasioned  by  the  marriage  of  one  of  my  daughters,  I  was 
led  to  set  forth,  by  public  testimony,  the  excellency  of  the  divine 
fear,  and  its  blessed  and  salutary  effects  on  the  minds  of  those, 
who  Uve  daily  under  an  humbling  sense  thereof ;  and,  by  the 
persuasive  language  of  entreaty,  endeavoured  to  arrest  the  minds 
of  the  tender  and  beloved  youth  present,  with  a  sense  of  the 
necessity  of  having  it  to  dwell  richly  in  their  hearts,  as  the  only 
sure  means  of  preservation,  from  the  many  evils  and  temptations 
which  abound  in  the  world.  A  comfortable  cahn  was  brought 
over  the  meeting,  a  fit  preparative  for  the  quiet  and  orderly 
accomplishment  of  the  intended  marriage.  It  was  cause  of 
thankfulness  to  my  mind,  having  been  favoured  to  have  four 
daughters,  out  of  five,  agreeably  married,  in  the  comely  order  of 
Friends  :  the  other,  yet  single,  a  tender  precious  young  woman, 


KLiAS  nines 


195 


observing  with  pious  submission  her  parents'  counsel.  But  this 
is  a  blessing  which  few  parents  enjoy,  except  those  who  hve 
under  a  daily  concern,  with  timely  and  contivnied  care,  to  watch 
over  and  nurture  their  tender  offspring  in  the  fear  of  the  Lord. 

Sixth  day.    Accompanied  our  daughter  with  her  husband  to 
his  father's  house,  and  returned  in  the  evening. 
■IK Seventh  day-.    Spent  in  my  family  cares,  and  ended  the  week 
with  a  peaceful  mind. 

First  day,  the  6th  of  11th  month.  My  lot  was  silence  to-day. 
A  pleasant  lot  indeed,  when  the  Master  wills  it  so. 

Second,  third,  and  fourth  days.  Emploj^ed  diligently  in  my 
ordinary  aflairs.  The  rest  of  the  week  was  devoted  to  religious 
concerns.  We  had  the  company  of  a  ministering  Friend  from 
West  Jersey  on  fifth  day  at  our  meeting,  through  whose  fervent 
labotu"  the  life  was'  raised  info  dominion  ;  which  made  it  a  com- 
fortable and  instructive  season.  Accompanied  him  the  two  fol- 
lowing days  to  Bethpa.ge  and  Jerusalem,  having  a  meeting  at 
each  place  ;  both  of  which  were  seasons  of  favour. 

First  day,  13th.  Passed  our  meeting  again  in  silence,  under 
the  comfortable  feelings  of  a  mind  resigned  either  to  speak  or  to 
be  silent. 

Second,  third,  and  fourth  days.    Spent  in  my  usual  concerns. 

Fifth  day.  Was  our  monthly  meeting,  at  which  we  had  the 
companjf  of  the  same  Friend,  who  attended  our  meeting  the 
fifth  day  preceding.  I  had  near  vmity  with  him  in  his  exercise ; 
and  had  to  bear  a  corresponding  testimony,  both  in  the  men's 
and  women's  meeting.  It  was  a  season  of  favour  ;  and  much 
suitable  counsel  was  administered,  tending  to  excite  Friends  to 
greater  faithfulness  and  circvmnspection  in  the  right  ordering  of 
their  families,  and  in  bringing  up  and  educating  their  children, 
in  the  nurture  and  admonition  of  the  Lord,  consistent  with  our 
holy  profession. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Returned,  as  respects  the  mind,  like 
Mordecai  to  the  king's  gate  ;  Avhile  my  hands  were  busily  em- 
ployed in  my  family  affairs. 

First  day,  the  20th.  Having  felt  my  mind  for  some  time 
increasingly  inclined  to  sit  with  Friends  in  their  meeting  at 


196 


JOURNAL  OF 


Martinicock,  I  thought  it  right  at  this  time  to  attend  thereto;  but 
when  I  came  there,  niy  mind  felt  so  vacant  and  void  of  concern, 
that  for  some  time  I  was  ready  to  conclude,  that  if  my  coming 
was  of  any  use,  it  would  all  be  included  in  my  personal  presence, 
as  an  example  of  silence :  but  after  a  time  of  quiet  waiting,  a 
subject  presented,  and  the  life  rose  with  it,  and  opened  to  a  large 
communication,  in  which  the  gospel  was  preached  in  the  demon- 
stration of  the  spirit,  and  with  such  power  attending  as  produced 
a  very  solemn  covering  over  the  meeting ;  and  many  hearts 
present  were  broken  and  contrited.  For  this  favour  my  mind 
was  clothed  with  gratitude  and  thanksgiving  to  the  bountiful 
Author  of  all  our  mercies  and  blessings,  "  who  is  over  all,  God 
blessed  for  ever." 

The  rest  of  this  week  I  spent  about  home,  mostly  employed 
in  my  temporal  concerns.  Passed  our  fifth  day  meeting  in 
silence ;  and  the  week  ended  with  a  peaceful  mind,  which  I 
account  an  unmerited  favour. 

First  day,  the  27th.  Feeling  my  mind  drawn  to  sit  with 
Friends  at  Westlwry,  I  accordingly  attended  their  meeting,  in 
which  I  was  led  to  set  forth  the  excellency  of  the  state  described 
by  the  apostle  Paul,  which  is  freed  from  condemnation,  and  is 
effected  by  a  full  submission  and  obedience  to  the  law  of  the 
spirit  of  hfe  in  Christ  Jesus,  which  sets  free  from  the  law  of  sin 
and  death.  It  was  an  open,  and,  I  trust,  a  profitable  opportunity 
to  some  present ;  and  I  felt  peace  in  my  labour. 

Second  day.  Attended  the  funeral  of  a  neighbour,  whose 
wife  was  a  member  of  om-  society ;  and,  although  he  had  been  a 
very  intemperate  man,  yet,  towards  his  close,  he  signified  a 
desire  to  be  laid  in  Friends'  burial  ground,  which  was  allowed. 
His  widow  being  desirous  I  should  attend  the  funeral,  I  went 
accordingly  with  several  other  Friends.  The  neighbourhood 
was  chiefly  Putch  people,  and  a  considerable  number  attended. 
We  had  a  solemn  opportunity  among  them :  the  testimony  borne 
had  a  very  reaching  effect  on  many,  especially  among  the  youth ; 
and  I  was  made  thankful  for  the  opportunity. 

Third  and  fourth  days.  Occupied  in  la)ring  in  my  winter 
etore  of  provisions. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


Fifth  day.  Attended  our  meeting.  It  was  a  quiet  encouraging 
season.  Towards  the  latter  part,  I  was  concerned  to  show  to 
Friends  the  hurtful  tendency  of  evil  lliinking,  which  I  introduced 
by  that  short  saying :  Evil  be  to  him,  that  evil  thinks.  The 
subject  enlarged,  and  spread  increased  weight  over  the  meeting ; 
and  many  minds  were  humbled  and  contrited ;  and  we  parted 
under  the  solemn  covering. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Occupied  in  my  usual  concerns, 
with  attendant  peace  of  mind. 

First  day,  the  4th  of  12th  month.  A  quiet  silent  meeting 
to-day. 

Second,  third,  and  fourth  days.  Diversely  engaged.  Part  of 
the  time  occupied  with  many  other  Friends,  in  collecting  some 
relief  for  the  poor  in  the  city  of  New- York  ;  the  present  tumultu- 
ous state  of  pubhc  affairs  having  reduced  many  of  the  labouring 
part  of  the  citizens  to  a  suffering  state,  for  want  of  the  necessaries 
of  life. 

Fifth  day.  In  the  meeting  for  w'orship  which  preceded  our 
preparative  meeting,  I  felt  my  mind  renewedly  engaged  to  call 
Friends'  attention  to  a  faithful  support  of  our  (Christian  testimo- 
nies ;  particularly  those  against  war  and  injustice  ;  and  that  all 
might  with  firmness  maintain  our  Christian  liberties,  without 
fear,  favour,  or  affection,  against  every  encroachment  of  the  secu- 
lar powers ;  as,  in  the  present  disturbed  state  of  public  affairs, 
laws  had  recently  been  enacted,  levying  taxes  and  other  requisi- 
tions for  the  support  of  w^ar ;  which  was  now  spreading  and 
making  its  destructive  ravages  in  our  once  peaceful  land.  A 
solemn  weight  covered  the  meeting  during  the  communication  ; 
and  I  was  favoured  to  reheve  my  mind  for  the  present,  from  the 
weight  of  concern  and  exercise  it  lay  imder  on  those  accounts. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Busily  engaged  in  my  family  con- 
cerns; believing  with  the  apostle,  that  he  who  dolh  not  take  the 
necessary  care  for  his  own,  and  families'  comfortable  support, 
may  be  considered  to  have  denied  the  faith,  and  in  that  respect 
is  worse  than  an  infidel. 

First  day,  the  11th.  Being  invited  to  attend  the  funeral  of  a 
woman  attached  to  Friends,  though  not  a  member ;  a  widow  of 


198 


.TOURNAL  OP 


my  acfuiaintnnce  in  our  neighbouring  town  of  Hempstead;  and 
feeling  an  inclination  tlipicto,  I  attended  accordingly.  There  was 
a  considerable  collection,  mostly  made  up  of  Episcopalians,  Pres- 
byterians, and  Methodists ;  among  whom  my  mind  was  enlarged 
in  gospel  love,  and  led  to  sound  fortli  the  glad  tidings  of  life  and 
salvation,  thro\igh  Jesus  Christ  the  second  Adam,  the  Lord  from 
heaven,  a  quickening  spirit ;  showing  that  by  a  fuU  submission 
to  the  inward  operation  of  this  spirit,  a  manifestation  of  which  is 
given  to  every  man  to  profit  withal,  we  experience  the  (ruth  of 
that  remarkable  saying  of  the  apostle  Paul :  For  as  in  Adanti,  or 
the  first  fallen  nature,  all  die;  so  in  Christ,  the  second  Adam,  or 
the  renewed  and  rjuickened  state,  all  are  made  alive ;  and  there- 
fore born  again,  not  of  corruptible  seed,  but  of  the  incorruptil)le 
seed  and  word  of  God,  that  liveth  and  abidet  h  for  ever.  It  was  a 
highly  favoured  season,  in  which  tlie  Lord's  power  was  exalted, 
and  the  truth  reigned  over  all,  bowing  the  assembly  generally; 
and  many  hearts  were  broken  and  contrited.  It  was  evidently 
the  Lord's  doing,  and  marvellous  in  mine  eyes ;  and  engaged 
renewed  gratitude  and  thankfulness  of  heart  for  the  unmerited 
mercy. 

Second  and  third  days.  Spent  in  attending  our  meeting  for 
sufferings  in  New- York,  in  which  an  opportunity  opened  to  re- 
lieve my  mind  of  a  concern  I  had  been  for  some  time  exercised 
under,  on  account  of  some  recent  laws  enacted  by  the  general 
government  of  this  count  ry,  and  the  legislature  of  the  state  of  New- 
York  ;  which,  in  their  tendency,  were  opposite  to  our  testimony 
against  war  and  injustice ;  and  were  likely  to  produce  much  suffer- 
ing to  the  faithful  in  our  society,  who  saw  they  could  not  yield  to 
the  requisition  of  those  laws,  without  balking  their  Christian  testi- 
monies in  these  respects.  I  was  led  to  excite  Friends  to  unity  in 
this  concern;  as  the  want  of  uniformity  would  very  much  tend  to 
lay  waste  those  precious  testimonies,  and  increase  the  suflferings 
of  the  society. 

Fourth  day.  Attended  our  neighbouring  monthly  meeting  of 
Westbury.  My  mind  was  engaged  to  call  Friends'  attention  to 
a  more  close  adherence  to  discipline  ;  the  right  management  of 
which  could  not  be  profitably  effected,  without  keeping  to  a  right 


EI.IAS  HICKS. 


199 


and  sound  form.  I  felt  satisfaction  in  my  labour,  in  a  belief 
that  the  honest-hearted  were  strengthened  and  encouraged. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  oui"  own  monthly  meeting,  at  which  we 
had  the  company  of  our  friend  John  Winslow,  from  the  district 
of  Maine,  in  New  England.  His  gospel  labours,  in  the  line  of 
the  ministry,  were  acceptable  and  edifying.  At  this  meeting,  I 
opened  to  my  friends  a  prospect,  which  had  for  some  time  attended 
my  mind  to  make  a  visit  to  some  scattered  families  of  oiu'  society, 
who  resided  in  the  outskirts  of  our  quarterly  meeting ;  some  of 
whom,  being  distant  front  meeting,  but  seldom  attended.  I  had 
also  a  view  of  visiting  some  families  who  were  not  members,  and 
of  appointing  some  meetings,  among  some  of  the  neighbouring 
inhabitants  of  other  societies.  The  meeting  united  with  the 
prospect,  and  left  me  at  liberty  to  pursue  it,  as  way  might  open. 

On  sixth  and  seventh  days,  I  accompanied  our  friend  Jolm 
Winslow  to  Bethpage  and  Jerusalem ;  attending  a  meeting  in 
each  place.  The  Lord  our  gracious  helper  was  near,  strength- 
ening and  qualifying  to  preach  the  gospel  of  life  and  salvation  in 
the  clear  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  and  with  power ;  humbling 
and  contriting  many  present,  and  rejoicing  the  minds  of  the 
honest-hearted. 

First  day,  the  18lh.  I  attended  our  own  meeting ;  and  was 
favoured  therein  with  a  lively  impressive  testunony  which  pro- 
duced a  very  comfortable  solenmity  over  the  meeting,  and  ren- 
dered it  an  instructive  edifying  season. 

On  second  day,  by  appointment,  I  met  our  friend  John  Wins- 
low at  a  meeting  in  the  town  of  Oysterbay ;  where  we  again 
witnessed  the  Shepherd  of  Israel  to  be  near,  enabling  us  to  dis- 
charge ourselves  faithfully  to  the  people ;  setting  the  truth  above 
errour,  and  left  it  vipon  them,  whether  they  will  hear,  or  forbear. 

On  third  day  evening,  had  an  appointed  meeting  for  the  black 
people  in  our  meeting-house  at  Jericho.  It  appeared  to  be 
owned  in  a  very  especial  manner  by  the  Master  of  our  assembUes, 
who  fiunished  doctrine  suited  to  their  states  and  conditions ;  and 
the  truth  reigned  over  all,  fuUy  evidencing  that  the  Lord  our 
God  is  no  respecter  of  persons,  but  is  gracious  and  merciful 
unto  aU ;  and  that  in  every  nation,  kindred,  tongue,  and  peo- 


200 


JOURNAL  OP 


pie,  those  that  fear  hun,  and  work  righteousness,  are  accepted  of 
him. 

Fouith  day.  Attended  an  appointed  meeting,  about  four  miles 
easterly  from  Jericho.  It  was  a  highly  favoured  season ;  most 
present  were  affected  by  the  prevalence  of  truth,  that  ran  as  oU. 
Surely  it  was  the  Lord's  doing,  and  worthy  of  grateful  acknow- 
ledgments and  thanksgiving,  for  the  unmerited  favour. 

In  the  evening  we  attended  another  meetmg  at  Cold  Sprmg ; 
and  although  not  so  open  as  the  former,  yet  we  were  favoured  to 
clear  ourselves  among  them  ;  and  left  them  with  the  reward  of 
peace  in  our  labour. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  a  meeting  in  the  morning  at  the  house 
of  a  man  not  a  member,  at  Huntington  West  Neck ;  and  in  the 
evening  one  at  the  west  end  of  the  town  of  Huntington,  at  Peleg 
Woods'.  The  first  was  a  very  precious  season  to  the  visiters,  and, 
I  trust  also,  to  most  or  all  of  the  visited :  the  latter  a  stripping 
time  in  the  forepart,  but  ended  well. 

Sixth  day.  Visited  some  families  on  our  way  home,  which 
visits,  I  believe,  were  mutually  comfortable. 

Seventh  day.  Spent  partly  in  repairing  the  travelling  vehicle 
of  our  friend  aforenamed,  who  had  accompanied  me  in  the  above 
tour. 

First  day,  the  25th.  My  mind,  while  sitting  in  our  meeting, 
was  opened  on  the  subject  of  faith,  in  the  revival  of  that  Scripture 
passage,  viz :  "  All  men  have  not  faith."  I  was  led,  in  a  clear 
fuU  testimony,  to  show  to  the  auditory,  why  all  men  have  not 
faith ;  although  the  means  of  obtaining  it  are  freely  offered  to 
the  acceptance  of  all ;  yet  it  is  not  to  be  obtained  by  man's  natural 
wisdom  or  acquirements,  but  only  by  and  through  the  operation 
and  inspiration  of  the  grace  and  spirit  of  God,  as  man  yields  in 
obedience  and  submission  thereunto :  hence  he  comes  to  know 
God,  by  the  inward  experimental  touches  of  his  own  life  and 
power  in  his  soul ;  and  hence  springs  up  in  him,  as  he  patiently 
submits  thereunto,  that  living  operative  faith,  that  works  by  love 
to  the  purifying  of  the  heart ;  but  such  as  are  exercising  them- 
selves in  their  own  speculative  wisdom,  and  refuse  submission  to 
the  manifestations  of  divine  grace,  have  not  faith,  because  they 


ELIAS  HICKS, 


201 


reject  the  only  means  by  which  it  can  be  obtained.  The  truth 
was  raised  into  dominion,  to  the  praise  of  him  who  is  over  all,  God 
blessed  for  ever.  * ' 

Second  and  third  days.  Busily  employed  in  my  husbandry 
and  family  affairs  ;  each  day  closing  with  a  peaceful  mind. 

Fourth  and  fifth  days.  1  attended  the  meetings  at  Westbury 
and  Cowneck ;  and  previous  notice  being  given  of  my  intention 
of  attending  them,  they  were  larger  than  usual  at  that  time  in 
the  week.  Through  the  gracious  condescension  of  Israel's  never- 
failing  Helper,  my  mind  was  opened  to  declare  to  the  people  of 
the  things  concerning  the  kingdom  of  God,  in  two  large  doctrinal 
testimonies,  one  at  each  place,  suited  to  the  states  of  the  audi- 
tories. The  doctrines  delivered  distilled  as  the  dew  on  the  minds 
of  many  who  were  present ;  causing  tears  of  contrition  to  trickle 
down  their  cheeks.  Surely  such  seasons  are  as  a  brook  by  the  way 
to  the  honest  exercised  traveller  Zion-ward  ;  as  they  tend  to  an 
increase  of  faith,  and  inspire  with  fresh  courage  to  persevere  in 
the  heavenly  journey. 

I  also  attended  an  appointed  meeting  in  the  intermediate  eve- 
ning at  Hempstead  Harbour.  Although  I  was  led  in  my  com- 
munication to  treat  in  a  full  clear  manner  divers  particular  doc- 
trines of  the  gospel :  yet  it  seemed  to  have  but  httle  entrance  in 
the  minds  of  those  present,  which  made  the  exercise  arduous, 
and  afforded  but  little  satisfaction  in  the  end.  This  I  have  found 
mostly  to  be  the  case,  in  neighbourhoods  where  the  minds  of  the 
people  are  led  to  adhere  to  outward,  formal  and  ceremonial  per- 
formances in  religion ;  and  espeaally  where  much  self-activity 
and  bodily  exercise  is  superadded,  Vhich  is  very  much  the  case 
with  the  principal  part  of  this  neighbourhood :  and  those  not  of 
this  description  are,  except  a  few,  in  a  state  of  lukewarmness  and 
almost  entire  indifferency,  respecting  those  things  which  belong 
to  their  soul's  salvation. 

On  sixth  day,  I  attended  the  funeral  of  a  person  who  died  in  a 
Friend's  family,  wherein  he  had  been  a  labourer  for  many  years, 
in  the  neighbourhood  last  mentioned.  Although  but  few  collect- 
ed, yet  the  opportunity  was  solemn ;  and  the  testimony  borne  had 
a  reaching  effect  on  the  minds  of  divers  present  especially  on 

26 


202 


JOURNAL  OP 


several  of  the  youth.  May  it  be  fastened  by  the  Master  of  assem- 
bUes,  as  a  nail  in  a  sure  place. 

Seventh  day.    Oc^ipied  in  my  temporal  concerns  ;  and  the 
week,  and  the  year,  ended  with  a  peaceful  mind. 

First  day,  the  1st  of  1st  month,  1815.  My  mind,  while  silently 
waiting  in  our  meeting,  was  opened  to  view  in  prospect  the 
beauty  and  excellency  of  order.  As  it  spread  on  my  mind,  1  felt 
constrained  to  communicate  on  the  subject ;  and  to  show,  that  all 
things,  which  continued  in  full  subjection  to  the  divine  will,  were 
preserved  in  the  same  beautiful  order  they  were  arranged  in 
from  the  beginning ;  and  that  all  disorder  sprang  from,  and  was 
the  effect  of,  a  will  separate  and  distinct  from  the  divine  will. 
For  as  God  is  a  God  of  order,  and  is  also  the  creator  of  all  things, 
of  course  there  can  be  no  order  and  right  harmony  in  his  crea- 
tion, but  what  he  is  the  sole  author  of :  hence  the  necessity  of 
every  created  being  becoming  wholly  subject  to  his  heavenly  and 
divine  will,  as  nothing  else  can  possibly  restore  the  creation  to  its 
primitive  order  and  harmony  :  and  when  this  is  effected,  there  will 
be  a  perfect  subjection  of  every  distinct  and  separate  WiU,  to  the  will 
of  our  heavenly  Father.  Then  the  whole  creation  will  stand  in 
a  state  of  subservience  to  the  divine  will ;  then  will  the  morning 
stars  again  resume  their  song,  and  all  the  sons  of  God  shout  for 
joy.    O  !  happy  day,  may  the  Lord  hasten  it  in  his  own  time. 

Second  day.  I  attended  the  funeral  of  a  young  man,  who 
was  killed  by  the  faUing  of  his  horse.  He  was  in  company  Avith 
a  number  of  loose  young  men  at  a  tavern,  where  they  had  been 
running  horses ;  and  his  hors»  threw  him  off  in  a  fearfid  man- 
ner ;  nevertheless  he  escaped  unhurt :  but  shortly  after,  as  he 
was  riding  from  the  tavern,  his  horse  fell  with  him,  and  he  died 
with  the  hurt  he  received  by  the  foU,  in  about  a  week  after.  The 
accident  had  considerable  effect  on  his  young  companions  ;  and 
impressed  their  minds  with  sadness  and  alarm.  They  were 
generally  present  at  his  funeral ;  as  also  were  most  of  the  youth 
in  the  neighbourhood,  for  a  considerable  distance  round ;  who, 
Avith  others  of  riper  years,  made  a  large  collection.  The  Lord, 
Avho  is  always  graciously  near,  and  ready  to  help  in  every  needful 
time,  opened  my  mouth  among  them  in  a  large  affecting  testi- 


P.LIAS  HICKS, 


203 


iTiony,  stilting  the  occasion.  It  was  a  very  humbling  solemn  sea- 
son, not  soon  to  be  forgotten  by  many  present ;  and  my  spirit 
was  made  thankful  for  the  mimerited  favour. 

After  the  funeral,  I  went,  with  my  wife  and  daughter  Eliza- 
beth, to  IsUp,  to  see  our  grandson,  who  is  in  a  weakly  declining 
state.    We  returned  home  the  next  evening. 
[    Fourth  day.    Engaged  in  my  family  concerns. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  meeting  to-day  in  silence.  We  had 
the  company  of  our  friend  Phebe  I.  Merritt,  from  New- York, 
who  also  sat  most  of  the  meeting  in  silence  ;  but  appeared 
towards  the  close  in  a  short  testimony,  which  spread  a  good 
degree  of  hfe  over  the  meeting  ;  which  was  truly  gladdening. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Part  of  the  time  occupied  in  tempo- 
ral concerns  ;  and  part  in  assisting  an  ancient  Friend,  upwards 
of  ninety  years  of  age,  in  settUng  his  business,  and  writing  his 
^\^ll.  He  appeared  competent  to  the  purpose,  both  as  to  memory 
and  understanding. 

Fiist  day,  the  8th.  My  mind  was  in  unison  with  the  exercise 
and  testimony  of  our  friend  Phebe  I.  Menitt,  who  was  again 
with  us  at  our  meeting  to-day  ;  and  I  found  it  my  duty  towards 
the  close  of  the  meeting  to  set  my  seal  thereto,  iii  a  short  impres- 
sive testimony  :  and,  I  trust,  the  meeting  closed  under  a  sensible 
degree  of  divine  favour,  worthy  of  our  thankfulness  and  gratitude. 

Second  and  third  days.  While  my  hands  were  busily  em- 
ployed in  my  temporal  business,  my  mind  was  often  led  to  rise 
above  all  temporal  enjoyments  ;  and  to  contemplate  on  things  of 
an  eternal  nature.  In  the  course  of  my  meditations  I  was  led  to 
contrast  those  who  are  led  and  influenced  by  the  wisdom  and 
will  of  man,  Avith  those  who  are  led  and  influenced  by  the 
wisdom  and  will  of  God  ;  and  it  was  opened  to  me  that,  of 
necessity,  the  former  must  be  ruled  and  governed  by  the 
wisdom  and  power  of  man  :  hence  the  necessity  of  coercion,  and 
hence  the  necessity  of  war ;  as  every  government  of  coercion, 
must  of  necessity  be  set  up  and  maintained  by  the  force  and 
fear  of  the  sword,  as  that  is  the  last  alternative,  in  every  govern- 
ment, set  up  in  the  wisdom  and  will  of  man.  But  those,  who 
are  led  and  influenced  by  the  wisdom  and  will  of  God,  have 


204 


JOURNAL  OF 


no  necessity  of  being  governed  by  any  thing  else  than  the 
divine  wisdom  and  will,  through  the  power  of  persuasive 
love  ;  and  no  other  coercion  can  ever  be  necessary  in  the  king- 
dom of  heaven,  where  nothing  reigns  but  love,  peace,  and  joy 
undefiled,  without  intermission.  And  O  !  that  every  rational 
being  was  so  inspired  with  a  real  soul-craving  desue,  after  the 
enjoyment  of  this  heavenly  and  peaceful  kingdom,  as  not  to  rest 
until  he  had  gained  a  satisfactory  assurance,  that  his  name  was 
enrolled  in  that  city,  which  hath  foundations  whose  builder  and 
maker  the  Lord  is. 

Fourth  day.  I  rode  to  New- York,  in  order  to  attend  the  funeral 
of  our  beloved  friend,  Matthew  Franklin,  to  take  place  the  next 
day.  He  was  taken  with  an  apoplectic  fit  while  speaking  in  the 
morning  meeting  in  Pearl-street,  on  the  preceding  first  day.  He 
appeared  lively  in  testimony,  but  was  suddenly  stopped  by  indis- 
position, and  sat  quietly  down  :  but  soon  arose  and  withdrew, 
and  was  followed  by  some  of  his  friends,  and  would  have  fallen 
as  soon  as  he  got  out,  had  he  not  been  upheld  by  them.  In  a 
few  minutes  he  fell  into  an  almost  senseless  state,  as  to  the  body, 
not  being  able  to  speak  afterwards ;  and  quietly  expired  at  about 
half  past  seven  in  the  evening  of  the  following  day :  and,  we 
trust,  has  safely  landed  in  that  celestial  port,  where  the  wicked 
cease  from  troubling,  and  the  weary  soul  is  at  rest. 

He  appeared  amiable  in  his  life  and  conversation,  and  was 
generally  beloved  by  his  friends  and  acquaintance,  especially  the 
youth ;  for  whose  improvement  and  preservation,  he  often  ap- 
peared very  solicitous.  The  unusually  large  attendance  at  his 
fiineral,  and  the  solemnity  that  appeared  in  the  countenances  of 
the  multitude  assembled,  (the  meeting-house  though  large  not 
containing  perhaps  more  than  two-thirds  of  those  that  gathered,) 
carried  full  evidence  of  the  correctness  of  the  foregoing  representa- 
tion, as  did  also  the  testimonies  borne  on  that  solemn  occasion. 

I  attended,  besides  the  funeral  on  fifth  day,  two  other  meetings ; 
one  at  Liberty-street  in  the  morning,  it  being  Friends'  meeting 
day  at  that  place,  and  a  meeting  for  the  people  of  colour  in  Pearl- 
street.  Tlie  latter  was  very  large.  My  mouth  was  opened  in 
each  assembly  to  speak  of  those  things  which  relate  to  the  king- 


ELTAS  HICKS. 


205 


dom  of  God,  especially  at  the  funeral ;  and  in  the  meeting  for  the 
people  of  colour,  my  mind  was  largely  opened  to  preach  the  gospel 
in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  and  the  Lord's  power  attended, 
humbling  and  soleronizing  the  assemblies.  It  was  evidently  the 
Lord's  doing.  May  all  the  honour  and  praise  be  ascribed  to  him, 
for  he  only  is  worthy,  both  now  and  for  ever.  Lie  low,  O  my  soul ! 
and  be  hmnbled  in  the  dust,  from  a  due  sense  of  such  unmerited 
mercy. 

On  sixth  day,  I  rode  to  Manhattanville,  and  attended  a  meet- 
ing there  in  the  evening.  It  was  for  the  most  part,  I  think,  a 
favoured  season.  The  truth  was  largely  declared,  and  appeared 
to  have  a  reaching  effect  upon  most  present. 

Seventh  day.  Returned  to  the  city,  and  attended  a  meeting 
in  the  evening  in  the  Bowery ;  which  I  had  appointed  the  day 
before  I  left  town.  It  was  a  very  solemn  quiet  meeting,  the 
power  of  truth  flowed  freely,  and  I  hope  had  a  profitable  entrance 
^\^th  some.    May  it  prove  as  a  nail,  fastened  in  a  sure  place. 


206  JOURNAL  OF 


CHAPTER  IX. 

Visit  to  families  of  Friends  in  New- York,  and  engagements  at  and  about 
home,  1815. 

First  day,  the  15th  of  1st  month,  1815.  I  attended  Friends' 
meetings  in  New- York.  Was  at  Pearl-street  in  the  morning, 
and  the  other  in  the  afternoon.  My  mind  was  opened  to  commu- 
nicate largely  in  both  meetings  ;  and  was  led,  in  the  course  of  the 
testimonies,  to  open  divers  particular  doctrines  of  the  gospel ;  and 
to  distinguish  between  the  law  state,  and  that  of  the  gospel ;  and 
to  show  to  the  people,  that  as  all  the  shadows  of  the  law  stood  in, 
and  consisted  of,  outward  and  elementary  tlyngs,  they  must  end 
in  the  gospel,  which  is  the  substance  of  all  shadows  ;  and  of 
course  supercedes  them  all.  It  was  a  day  of  favour,  in  which 
the  Lord's  power  was  exalted ;  and  his  name  and  truth  set  above 
all  errour  and  untruth. 

On  second  day  evening  I  attended  the  meeting  for  sufferings, 
which  was  adjourned  to  that  time  on  a  particular  occasion.  We 
sat  again  the  next  day,  when  we  finished  the  business  before 
us.  In  the  evening  I  attended  a  meeting  I  had  appointed  for 
the  labouring  class  of  the  community,  and  for  those  in  low  cir- 
cumstances. The  weather  was  very  inclement ;  it  being  a  snow 
storm  ;  which  prevented  most  of  the  women  from  attending :  but 
there  was  a  considerable  number  of  men,  who  behaved  witli 
great  order  and  solemnity.  They  received,  with  much  attention, 
the  truths  delivered  :  which  inspired  a  hope,  that  the  opportunity 
woidd  be  blest,  and  a  real  benefit  experienced  by  inany  of  them. 

Fourth  day.  I  attended  Friends'  meeting  in  Pearl-street, 
which  proved  a  comfortable,  and,  I  believe,  instructive  season  to 
some,  especially  among  the  youth.    After  this,  I  returned  home 


F.LIAS  HICKS. 


207 


with  peace  of  mind,  and  a  thankful  sense  of  the  continued  mercy 
of  a  gracious  God  to  his  creature  man,  amidst  all  his  backslidings 
and  transgressions. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  own  monthly  meeting ;  in  which  I 
had  to  lay  before  Friends  the  great  advantage  that  would  result, 
not  only  to  us  as  individuals,  but  also  to  society,  by  individual 
faithfulness,  and  a  full  belief  and  trust  in  the  divine  providence; 
and  a  strict  and  undeviating  adherence  to  the  order  and  disci- 
pline of  the  Church,  for  which  labour  I  had  peace. 

Sixth  day.  I  attended  the  funeral  of  Charles  Valentine,  son 
of  David  Valentine,  at  Moscheto  Cove.  It  was  very  largely 
attended  by  Friends  and  others.  I  had  an  open  time  among 
them  ;  which  was  introduced  with  this  scripture  exhortation  : 
"  Stand  fast  therefore  in  the  liberty  wherewith  Christ  hath  made 
us  free,  and  be  not  entangled  again  with  the  yoke  of  bondage." 
The  subject  was  largely  opened,  showing  that  all  the  works  of 
the  flesh  did  in  a  lesser  or  greater  degree  bring  the  mind  under 
a  yoke  of  bondage  ;  and  that  the  fear  of  death  was  a  principal 
one,  out  of  which  many  others  originated ;  such  as  every  means 
of  self  defence,  that  consisted  in  war  and  warlike  preparations. 
Every  ceremonial  performance  in  matters  of  a  religious  nature  ; 
such  as  water  baptism,  and  what  is  called  the  ordinance  of  the 
supper,  in  the  use  of  outward  bread  and  wine,  not  being  essential 
bring  a  yoke  and  ])urden  on  the  believer  in  Christ ;  as  he  came 
purposely  to  set  his  followers  free  fiom  all  signs  and  shadows, 
and  bring  them  into  the  possession  and  enjoyment  of  the  sub- 
stance ;  whereby  we  come  to  know  all  the  shadows  to  flee  away 
and  come  to  an  end ;  as  Christ  manifested,  is  the  substance 
and  end  of  all  shadows.  It  was  a  highly  favoured  season.  The 
truth  was  raised  into  dominion  and  ran  freely,  humbling  and 
contriting  many  hearts.  May  the  praise,  the  honour,  and  the 
glory  be  all  ascribed  to  Him,  who  opens  and  none  can  shut,  and 
who  shuts  and  none  can  open  ;  and  who  remains  to  be  "  God 
over  all,  blessed  for  ever." 

Seventh  day.  Attended  to  some  necessary  repairs  about  my 
farm  and  tenements.  For  as  I  am  much  from  home  attending 
to  my  religious  engagements,  when  I  feel  a  liberty  to  be  at  home, 


208  JOURNAL  OF 

I  find  it  needful  to  be  industriously  employed,  to  keep  my  tempo- 
ral concerns  in  order ;  so  that  when  I  leave  home  on  truth's 
account,  my  mind  may  be  at  Uberty,  without  thinking  much 
about  them. 

First  day.  Attended  our  own  meeting,  mostly  in  silence. 
The  rest  of  this  week  was  principally  taken  up  in  preparing  for 
and  attending  our  quarterly  meeting,  which  was  held  at  West- 
bury.  It  was  pretty  largely  attended,  both  the  meeting  for  disci- 
pline, and  that  for  public  worship  ;  the  latter  was  somewhat  hurt 
by  an  unskilful  appearance  in  the  ministry,  in  the  forepart,  but 
ended  well.  In  the  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders,  as  also  in 
that  for  discipline,  a  living  exercise  and  concern  were  prevalent 
with  divers  Friends,  not  only  in  searching  out  the  causes  of  the 
numerous  weaknesses  and  deficiencies  that  were  manifest  in 
society,  but  also  endeavouring  for  their  removal,  by  much  tender 
and  pressing  advice  and  counsel,  suited  to  the  states  of  those  who 
were  delinquent.  Many  minds  were  brought  under  an  humbling 
exercise  and  travail  of  spirit  in  those  solemn  opportunities  ;  and 
divers  j'^oung  Friends,  who  were  under  the  forming  hand,  pre- 
paring for  usefulness  in  the  Church,  came  forth  at  this  time,  and 
publicly  espoused  the  cause  of  truth  and  righteousness,  uniting 
with  their  elder  brethren  in  the  exercise  and  travail  which  were 
felt  to  prevail  in  those  favoured  meetings.  My  spirit  was  led 
into  near  sympathy  with  these,  and  fervent  was  the  desire  and 
prayer  of  my  mind  for  their  preservation  in  the  path  of  duty ; 
that  so  they  might  grow  up  and  become  useful  in  society,  and 
faithful  labourers  and  piUars  in  the  Lord's  house,  that  should  go 
no  more  out. 

First  day,  the  29th.  We  had  a  comfortable  meeting  to-day, 
mostly  in  quiet  silent  retirement ;  except  towards  the  close  my 
mind  was  quickened  and  opened  to  a  short  communication,  in  the 
remembrance  of  the  case  of  Joseph  and  his  brethren  ;  wherein  I 
was  led  to  recapitulate  their  envy  and  hatred  towards  him,  and 
to  show  that  their  wicked  intentions  in  seUing  him,  to  prevent 
his  rising  to  the  power  and  dignity  which  his  dreams  appeared  to 
forbode,  were  the  very  means  in  the  ordering  of  divine  providence 
of  accomplishing  their  fulfilment ;  and  of  course  made  their  bow- 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


209 


ing  and  making  their  obeisance  to  him  much  more  humihating 
than  it  would  have  been  had  they  conducted  themselves  towards 
him  in  the  line  of  tme  brotherhood,  and  had  he  been  raised  to 
the  dignity  and  power  he  was,  by  some  other  way.  But  herein 
was  the  true  proverb  verified  :  Let  envy  alone,  and  it  will 
punish  itself.  I  was  led  further  to  open  the  malignity  and  bane- 
ful effects  of  those  hateful,  and  very  evil  propensities.  A  solemn 
weight  covered  the  meeting ;  and  we  parted  under  a  thankful 
sense  of  the  favour. 

The  rest  of  this  week  I  spent  in  my  ordinary  vocations,  and 
in  visiting  some  friends  under  bodily  affliction. 

First  day,  the  5th  of  2d  month.  I  left  home  in  order  to  pro- 
ceed again  in  the  concern  I  had  engaged  in,  to  visit  some  of  the 
inhabitants  in  some  of  our  neighbouring  towns,  and  some  scattered 
families  of  Friends  and  others.  I  spent  the  week  in  this  ser- 
vice, and  attended  nine  meetings,  all  by  appointment  in  places 
where  no  meetings  are  held  except  one  ;  and  visited  eleven 
families  of  Friends,  and  persons  not  members.  Although  I 
left  home  under  much  depression  of  spirit,  attended  with  great 
discouragement,  insomuch  that  I  was  brought  near  to  a  con- 
clusion that  it  would  be  safest  to  tarry  at  home,  and  wait  for 
a  more  full  manifestation  ;  yet,  as  I  brought  the  subject  to  the 
test  in  my  own  mind,  and  patiently  waited  for  an  answer  in 
much  abasedness  and  humiliation,  a  small  degree  of  light 
sprang  up,  in  which  the  voice  said,  go  and  tiust  in  the  Lord  to 
open  the  way.  My  mind  was  then  centered  in  a  state  of  perfect 
acquiescence ;  and  I  proceeded  accordingly,  seeing  nothing  fur- 
ther when  I  left  home,  than  to  attend  the  meeting  of  Friends  at 
Bethpage.  This  was  the  first  I  attended ;  but  before  the  close 
of  that  meeting,  light  sprang  up,  and  the  way  in  which  I  should 
advance  clearly  opened  ;  and  as  my  trust  and  dependence  were 
fixed  in  the  arm  of  divine  sufficiency,  strength  and  abihty  were 
furnished  from  season  to  season,  faithfully  to  espouse  the  cause 
of  truth  and  righteousness,  and  to  preach  the  gospel  in  the  clear 
demonstration  of  the  spirit,  and  with  power ;  convincing  and 
contriting  many  minds,  and  relieving  and  comforting  my  own. 
My  heart  was  inspired  with  continual  thankftdness  and  gratitude 

27 


210 


JOURNAL  OP 


to  the  blessed  Author  of  all  our  mercies.  I  returned  home  on 
seventh  day  evening,  accompanied  with  true  peace  of  mind. 

First  day,  12th.  Attended  our  own  meeting ;  and  after  a 
pretty  long  season  of  solemn  silence,  my  mind  was  opened  to 
communication,  in  the  revival  of  the  following  declaration  of  the 
apostle  James  :  "  For  as  the  body  without  the  spirit  is  dead,  so 
faith  without  works  is  dead  also."  The  subject  was  largely  and 
impressively  opened,  which  brought  a  solemn  covering  over  the 
meeting,  and  made  it  a  season  of  comfort  and  edification.  Surely 
such  seasons  administer  cause  for  all  the  humble  and  contrite  in 
heart  to  thank  God  and  take  courage ;  and  press  forward  in  the 
holy  and  heavenly  way. 

Second  day.  I  found  liberty  to  occupy  this  day  in  my  tem- 
poral concerns. 

Third  day.  I  attended  the  funeral  of  ci  man,  not  a  member, 
at  Jerusalem.  There  was  a  very  large  collection  of  people,  com- 
posed of  the  different  classes  of  civil  society ;  and  although  it  was 
a  time  of  extreme  cold,  and  the  means  for  rendering  the  rooms, 
wherein  the  people  assembled,  comfortable,  very  inadequate  for 
that  end,  yet  they  were  generally  very  quiet  and  orderly,  and 
appeared  to  pay  great  attention  to  the  doctrines  delivered.  My 
heart  and  mouth  were  opened  among  them,  to  speak  of  the 
things  concerning  the  kingdom  of  heaven,  and  to  set  forth,  in  a 
clear  and  forcible  manner,  the  way  and  means  of  man's  salva- 
vation  ;  and  that  nothing  short  of  a  freedom  from  sin,  and  the 
experience  of  real  righteousness,  would  be  sufficient  to  effect  that 
great  and  happy  end. 

Fourth  day.  I  attended  the  monthl}^  meeting  at  Westbury; 
and  had  some  close  searching  exercise,  both  in  the  meeting  for 
worship  and  that  for  discipline,  tending  to  quicken  Friends'  minds 
to  a  more  lively  concern  for  the  arising  of  the  divine  life  in  their 
meetings ;  that  so  their  faith  might  be  productive  of  good  works ; 
and  they  qualified  to  sei-ve  the  Lord  in  newness  of  life,  and  not 
in  the  oldness  of  the  letter. 

Fifth  day.  I  attended  our  own  monthly  meeting.  We  had 
but  little  business  to  attend  to  at  this  time.  I  found  it  incumbent, 
before  the  meeting  closed,  to  submit  a  prospect  that  attended  my 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


211 


mind  to  the  consideration  of  the  meeting,  to  visit  the  famiUes  of 
Friends  of  the  monthly  meeting  of  New- York ;  and  received 
Friends'  united  concurrence  therein. 

Sixth  day.  I  spent  with  my  family,  and  in  my  family  con- 
cerns ;  and  in  the  evening  attended  a  meeting  I  had  appointed 
at  Woolver  Hollow,  a  neighbourhood  consisting  mostly  of  Dutch 
people.  It  was  a  very  solemn  quiet  meeting,  and  I  had  good 
service  among  them,  to  the  mutual  comfort  and  edification  of 
most  present. 

Seventh  day.  I  left  home  again  on  my  former  concern  in 
visiting  some  more  of  the  scattered  families  of  Friends  and  others, 
in  the  suburbs  of  our  ([uarterly  meeting;  having  not  fully  accom- 
plished that  service.  Our  first  meeting  was  the  next  day  at 
Rockaway,  among  my  relatives  and  acquaintance,  this  having 
been  the  place  of  my  former  residence.  Although  the  meeting 
at  this  time  was  small,  partly  occasioned  by  the  inclemency  of 
the  weather,  yet,  through  the  gracious  extendings  of  divine  love, 
it  proved  a  favomed  season. 

After  this,  we  proceeded  eastward  on  the  southern  part  of  the 
island,  and  had  five  more  meetuigs  among  those  not  in  member- 
ship with  us,  except  here  and  there  a  scattered  family,  or  part  of 
a  family ;  yet  numbers  of  them  appear  to  be  convinced  of  the 
truth  of  the  doctrines  and  principles  of  Friends ;  and  many  of 
them,  I  believe,  if  they  continue  faithful  to  their  convincement, 
will  in  time  become  members  with  us.  We  also  had  some  edify- 
ing seasons  in  the  few  scattered  families  of  Friends  in  this  quar- 
ter, and  in  a  number  of  families  of  those  inclining  to  Friends. 
We  returned  home  on  fifth  day  evening;  and  I  found  sweet 
peace  in  thus  dedicating  myself  to  the  promotion  of  the  cause  of 
truth  and  righteousness  in  the  earth. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Devoted  to  the  care  of  my  family 
and  household  concerns  ;  which  I  find  to  be  my  incumbent  duty, 
when  at  liberty  from  my  religious  engagements  and  gospel 
services. 

First  day,  the  26th.    Attended  our  own  meeting  to-day. 
Second  day.    Attended  the  funeral  of  a  woman  not  a  mem- 
ber ;  and  the  family  being  inclined  to  Friends,  a  meeting  was 


212 


JOURNAL  OP 


held  on  the  occasion,  which  proved  a  profitable  edifying  oppor- 
tunity. 

Third  day.  I  proceeded  to  New- York,  in  order  to  attend  the 
monthly  meeting  the  next  day  ;  in  wliich  I  opened  my  prospect 
of  visiting  the  famiUes  belonging  thereto,  with  which  the  meeting 
united.  But  feeling  a  concern  to  attend  the  monthly  meeting  to 
be  held  at  Flushing  the  following  day,  before  entering  on  the 
family  visit,  I  accordingly  went.  The  meeting  for  worship, 
which  preceded  that  for  discipline,  was  a  favoured  season,  in 
which  truth  reigned.  I  likewise  had  a  large  favoured  meeting 
with  the  inhabitants  of  the  town  in  the  evening ;  and  the  next 
day  returned  to  New- York. 

Seventh  day,  the  4th  of  3d  month.  I  began  the  family  visit. 
Sat  with  twelve  families,  in  some  of  which  I  felt  the  renewed 
visitation  of  the  heavenly  Father's  love,  in  which  the  visited  and 
visiters  were  united  in  the  bond  of  Christian  fellowship ;  which 
tended  to  inspire  with  strength  to  persevere  and  trust  in  the 
Lord,  who  hath  graciously  promised,  that  they  who  trust  in  him 
shall  not  be  confounded :  but  in  others,  things  were  much  out 
of  order,  and  darkness  spread  over  us  at  times  as  a  curtain, 
when  we  found  it  needful  to  be  clothed  with  faith  and  patience ; 
and  as  these  were  abode  in,  after  a  time  of  suffering  with  the 
seed,  way  was  mostly  made  to  set  the  testimony  of  truth  over 
darkness  and  errour.  Many  were  convicted  and  instructed ;  and 
peace  afforded  to  my  own  mind.  Samuel  Parsons  kindly  accom- 
panied me  in  the  greater  part  of  the  visit ;  and  cordially  united 
and  sympathized  with  me  therein. 

First  day.  I  attended  the  meetings  at  Liberty-street,  both 
forenoon  and  afternoon,  and  sat  with  four  families  ;  and,  in  the 
course  of  the  week,  seventy  more.  In  these  we  met  with  a 
variety  of  states  and  conditions,  which  renders  such  services  truly 
arduous  and  exeicising,  requiring  great  inward  attention  to  the 
divine  gift ;  as  nothing  else  can  open  to  the  diverse  states  of  the 
people,  and  qualify  to  speak  suital)ly  to  their  several  conditions,  to 
their  improvement  and  help ;  and  give  the  answer  of  peace  to 
those  under  such  exercises.  I  also  attended  Friends'  meetings, 
held  in  the  middle  of  the  week,  at  Pearl  and  Liberty  streets.  At 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


213 


the  former  was  a  nianiage.  It  was  a  time  of  unusual  favour,  in 
which  the  descendings  of  the  heavenly  Father's  love  were  felt 
to  cover  the  very  large  assembly,  in  an  eminent  manner.  My 
mouth  was  opened  in  a  large  impressive  testimony,  in  which,  in 
a  clear  instructive  manner,  I  had  to  set  forth  the  great  difference 
between  a  believer  and  an  unbeliever ;  showing  that  the  former 
was,  by  faithfulness  and  obedience  to  the  inward  divine  gift  of 
grace,  daily  impro\ing  and  advancing  in  divine  wisdom  and 
knowledge,  and  in  the  enjoyments  and  consolations  always  attend- 
ant thereon  ;  while  the  latter  was  sinking  deeper  and  deeper  into 
a  state  of  darkness  and  erroiu',  and  the  distresses  and  vexations, 
which  naturally  result  from  unbelief  It  was  a  day  of  high  favour, 
in  which  the  tmth  was  exalted  over  all  opposition  and  errour, 
rejoicing  many  minds ;  and  bowing  my  heart  in  deep  thank- 
fulness and  gratitude  to  the  Author  of  every  blessing.  Surely  it 
was  the  Lord's  doing  ;  therefore  let  all  the  praise  be  ascribed  to 
Him  who  is  over  all,  blessed  for  ever. 

First  day,  the  12th.  Attended  Pearl-street  meeting  in  the 
forenoon  and  afternoon.  Both  meetings  were  much  hurt  by  a 
long,  tedious  and  lifeless  communication  in  each,  by  a  Friend, 
not  a  resident  here,  who  attended  those  meetings  at  this  time.  It 
very  much  shut  up  my  way,  and  was,  I  apprehend,  a  great  loss 
to  the  meetings  ;  as  it  very  much  hurt  the  solemnity.  In  the 
course  of  this  week  I  sat  with  twenty-nine  families ;  and  attended 
Pearl-street  meeting  on  fourth  day.  After  this  1  rode  home,  in 
order  to  attend  our  own  monthly  meeting,  and  returned  on 
seventh  day  to  New- York.  On  first  day,  I  attended  Pearl-street 
meeting  in  the  forenoon,  and  Ijiberty-street  in  the  afternoon, 
both  comfortable  seasons.  In  the  comse  of  this  week,  I  sat  with 
seventy-seven  families. 

First  day,  the  26th.  Attended  Pearl-street  meeting  in  the 
forenoon  and  afternoon,  and  an  appointed  meeting  at  Liberty- 
street  in  the  evening.  They  Avere  large  full  meetings ;  and 
through  the  condescending  goodness  of  Israel's  Shepherd,  they 
were  eminently  favoured.  My  mouth  was  opened  in  each,  to 
preach  the  gospel  in  the  demonstration  of  truth,  to  the  comfort, 
edification  and  instruction  of  many  who  attended,  as  appeared  by 


214 


JOXniNAL  OF 


their  solemn  and  satisfactory  deportment ;  and  I  was  truly  thank- 
ful that  I  had  been  enal)lcd  to  get  through  this  day's  exercise,  to 
the  peace  of  my  own  mind,  Avhich  I  esteem  tlie  best  treasure. 

Second  day.  Sat  with  five  families  in  the  city,  and  in  the 
afternoon  crossed  the  ferry  to  Brooklyn,  and  visited  three  families 
of  Friends  in  that  neighbourhood,  they  being  members  of  Liberty- 
street  meeting.  I  also  had  an  appointed  meeting  in  the  evening, 
for  the  inhabitants  of  Brooklyn.  It  was  well  attended,  and  proved 
an  instructive  favoured  season,  gratefully  to  be  remembered. 

Third  day.  Rode  to  Manhattanville,  and  visited  the  famihes 
of  Friends  in  that  place,  and  three  families  on  the  way ;  and 
returned  to  the  city  next  morning,  and  attended  Friends'  prepa- 
rative meeting  in  Pearl-street.  It  was  the  time  for  answering 
the  queries;  and  it  proved  an  exercising  meeting,  Friends  having 
too  generally  got  in  the  habit  of  making  use  of  words  which 
rendered  their  answers  evasive,  and  not  giving  a  direct  one  to 
the  question  ;  by  which  the  deficient  members  were  very  much 
covered  ;  and  which  tended  rather  to  set  them  at  ease,  than  to 
stii"  them  up  to  more  diligence  and  care.  My  mind  was  deeply 
exercised,  things  appearing  yery  much  out  of  order  with  many 
in  this  city;  and  the  number  of  the  faithful  very  small.  I  endea- 
voured to  discharge  myself  faithfully  among  them,  and  found 
peace  in  my  labour. 

In  the  afternoon,  I  had  a  select  opportunity  with  the  Ministers, 
Elders  and  Overseers.  In  this  opportunity,  I,  in  a  good  measure, 
relieved  my  mind  from  a  l)iuden  I  had  been  under  for  some 
time,  respecting  Friends  in  those  stations.  In  the  evening  I  had 
an  appointed  meeting  in  the  east  part  of  tlie  town,  principally 
among  those  not  in  membership  with  us.  It  was  held  in  a  large, 
commodious  building,  erected  for  the  purpose  of  educating  the 
children  of  such  poor  people  as  did  not  Ijelong  to  any  society  of 
professed  Christians.  There  was  at  this  tune  a  school  held  in 
it,  consisting  of  nearly  four  hundred  such  children.  The  expenses 
were  defrayed  l)y  the  charitable  donations  of  the  citizens  at  large. 
It  is  a  benevolent  institution,  and  well  conducted.  The  meeting 
was  large,  consisting,  as  was  supposed,  of  a  thousand  people ;  to 
whom  the  truths  of  the  gospel  were  largely  opened,  com- 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


215 


forting  and  instructing  many  minds,  and  administering  reproof 
to  the  lukewarm,  the  licentious,  and  immoral.  A  general 
solemnity  spread  over  the  meeting  ;  and  we  parted  under  a  deep 
and  humbling  sense  of  the  unmerited  favour* 

Fifth  day.  Attended  the  preparative  meeting  at  Liberty-street, 
which  was  a  comfortable  meeting.  The  queries  appeared  to  be 
answered  with  much  more  consistency  than  at  the  other.  The 
afternoon  and  evening  spent  in  the  family  visit ;  as  aLso  the  two 
following  days. 

First  day,  the  2d  of  4th  month.  I  attended  Pearl-street  meet- 
ing in  the  morning,  and  that  at  Liberty-street  in  the  afternoon  ; 
and  public  notice  being  given  of  niy  intention  of  attending  the 
latter,  it  was  large.  I  also  had  an  appointed  meeting  in  the 
evening  at  Pearl-street,  which  was  also  very  large.  They  were 
all  seasons  of  favour,  especially  those  at  Pearl-street,  wherein 
truth  reigned,  and  the  people's  minds  were  solemnized,  and  the 
faithful  comforted  and  made  glad  together,  under  a  grateful  sense 
of  the  continued  mercy,  and  longsufl'ering  loving  kindness  of 
Israel's  Shepherd  to  the  Workmanship  of  his  holy  hand. 

Second  day.  Sat  with  four  families  in  the  forenoon  ;  and,  in 
the  afternoon,  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Flatbush,  near  the 
west  end  of  Long  Island,  where  no  Friends  live.  The  inhabit- 
ants were  mostly  Dutch  people,  the  descendants  of  the  ancient 
Hollanders :  they  had  but  little  acquaintance  wdth  us  or  our 
principles.  The  meeting  was  held  in  their  court-house.  A 
respectable  number  collected,  and  behaved  quietly,  becoming  the 
occasion.  Our  gracious  Helper  was  near,  furnishing  doctrine 
suited  to  their  states  and  conditions ;  which  had  a  reaching 
and  salutarjr  effect  upon  many  minds ;  and  through  the  preva- 
lence of  the  power  of  truth,  which  rose  into  dominion,  divers 
hearts  were  broken  and  contrited.  We  parted  from  them  with 
thankful  hearts,  and  returned  to  tlie  city  that  evening. 
'  Third  day.  Attended  the  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders, 
composed  of  the  select  members  of  the  monthly  meetings  of  New- 
York  and  Flushing.  It  was  a  solemn,  and,  I  hope,  a  profitable 
time.  The  next  day  the  monthly  meeting  of  New- York  was 
lield,  in  which  I  was  favoured  to  close  my  visit  to  Friends  there, 


216 


JOURNAL  OP 


in  an  opportunity  with  the  members  generally  together,  both 
male  and  female,  select  from  others.  At  this  meeting  1  discharged 
myself  fully  to  the  peace  of  my  own  mind,  and,  I  trust,  to  the 
comfort  and  encouragement  of  the  faithful ;  and  at  the  same 
time  administered  reproof  and  correction  to  the  lukewarm,  and 
unsound  members,  and  strength  to  the  weak  and  feeble-minded. 
The  Lord  was  supplicated  in  behalf  of  his  people,  that  he  would 
still  strive  with  them,  both  in  mercy  and  judgment,  as  he  may 
see  meet,  in  his  matchless  wisdom  and  loving  kindness,  and  not 
give  his  heritage  to  rejiroach,  lest  the  people  Avithout  be  led  to 
inquire,  where  is  their  God. 

Fifth  day.  I  turned  my  face  homeward,  having  a  meeting  at 
Newtown  Kilns,  at  the  eleventh  hour,  and  another  in  the  town 
at  evening.  They  were  favoured  seasons  ;  although  the  latter 
was  somewhat  interrupted  at  the  close,  by  a  hireling  minister, 
of  the  Presbyterian  persuasion,  who  took  some  exceptions  to  the 
doctrines  delivered  respecting  water  baptism,  imputative  righteous- 
ness, and  the  hire  of  ministers.  The  arguments  he  advanced  in 
support  of  these  appeared  very  weak,  l>eing  unfounded  and  falla- 
cious ;  and  the  scripture  passages  which  he  quoted  to  prove  his 
positions,  were  in  direct  opposition  thereto.  For  his  proof  of 
water  baptism,  he  made  use  of  the  doctrine  of  the  apostle  Paul ; 
and  especially  that  part  wherein  he  thanks  God  that  he  had 
baptized  but  a  very  small  number,  positively  asserting,  that 
Christ  sent  him  not  to  baptize  ;  therefore,  if  so  great  a  minister 
as  Paul  had  no  commission  or  authority  to  baptize,  that  is  with 
water,  who  had  converted  so  many  to  the  Christian  faith,  and 
set  up  and  established  many  churches,  in  parts  where  no  other 
of  the  primitive  ministers  had  yet  travelled,  surely  he  could  not 
think  it  needful,  or  othei-wnse  he  must  have  fallen  very  far  short 
of  fulfilling  his  ministry  ;  but  if  we  conclude,  as  I  apprehend  we 
are  all  bound  to  do,  that  Paul,  as  he  himself  asserts,  was  not  a 
whit  behind  the  chiefest  of  the  primitive  apostles,  we  may  then 
safely  conclude  that  water  baptism  has  no  part  in  the  commission 
of  a  gospel  minl'iter,  and  consequently  is  no  part  of  the  gospel 
dispensation,  but  was  only  made  use  of  in  condescension  to  the 
weak  state  of  the  Jewish  believers,  in  the  same  way  as  circum- 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


217 


cision  was  made  use  of  by  Paul.  Indeed  it  is  abundantly  evident, 
that  the  rituals  of  the  law  were  continued  for  many  years  by 
many  of  the  Jewish  Chiistians.  It  is  clear,  however,  that  it  was 
all  in  condescension  to  the  weak  state  that  the  believers  were 
in,  through  the  force  of  tradition  and  custom.  Having  been 
long  in  the  use  of  outward  shadows  and  types,  the  way  did  not 
open  to  shake  them  all  off"  at  once  ;  but  as  the  light  of  the  glori- 
ous gospel  should  arise,  they  would  gradually  recede  and  give 
place  to  the  substance,  just  as  wlien  the  sun  rises  above  the 
horizon,  all  the  shadows  of  the  night  flee  away. 

And  with  regard  to  imputative  righteousness,  some  Christians 
affirm  that  the  rigliteousness  of  Christ,  wrought  without  us, 
being  imputed  to  believers,  they  are  thereby  justified,  without  any 
works  of  righteousness  carried  on  in  us,  by  and  through  the 
operation  of  the  grace  of  God,  we  yielding  thereunto,  and  co-ope- 
rating therewith.  But  the  apostle  Paul  asserts  that  "the  grace 
of  God,  that  bringeth  salvation,  batli  appeared  to  all  men,  teaching 
us,  that  denying  ungodhness,  and  worldly  lusts,  we  should  live 
soberly,  righteously,  and  godly  in  this  present  world."  Now 
will  any  be  so  inconsistent  with  truth  and  righteousness,  as 
to  assert,  that  a  man  is  justified  merely  by  the  righteousness 
that  Christ  wrought  in  the  outward  manifestation,  without  his 
coming  to  know  in  his  own  experience,  those  works  of  righeous- 
ness  wrought  in  him,  as  above  expressed  by  the  apostle ;  and 
which  he  must  be  a  party  to  and  in,  or  they  cannot  be  wrought. 
For  a  mere  belief  in  grace  does  not  do  the  work  of  righteousness  ; 
but  faith  in  the  sufficiency  of  the  grace  is  the  first  previous  work 
of  the  mind  of  man  ;  but  if  that  belief  is  not  carried  into  effect, 
such  faith  cannot  save  him ;  lor  faith  without  works  is  dead, 
being  alone,  as  a  body  without  the  spirit.  I  think  the  conclusive 
arguments  of  the  apostle  James  are  quite  sufficient  to  prove  these 
things  to  every  judicious  jnind.  For  although  the  harlot  Rahab 
had,  from  what  appears,  a  full  belief  that  Israel's  armies  would 
conquer  the  land  of  Canaan,  and  it  is  likely  many  thousands 
more  of  the  Canaanites  had  the  same  belief;  yet  as  none  of 
them  added  good  works  to  their  faith  but  her,  none  others 
were  saved.    Abraham  also  believed  he  was  required  to  sacri- 

28 


218 


JOURNAL  OP 


fice  his  son,  as  the  scripture  assures  us ;  but  had  he  not  gone 
forward  to  put  it  in  execution,  his  faith,  instead  of  being  imputed 
to  him  for  rigliteousness,  would  have  greatly  administered  to  his 
condemnation  ;  and  instead  of  becoming  the  friend  of  God,  he 
would  have  been  cast  out  of  his  favour ;  so  that  by  his  works 
only  was  his  faith  made  perfect. 

But  the  great  errour,  of  the  generality  of  professed  Christians, 
Ues  in  not  making  a  right  distinction  between  the  works  that 
men  do  in  their  own  will,  and  by  the  leadings  of  their  own  car- 
nal wisdom,  and  those  works  that  the  true  believer  does,  in  the 
will  and  wisdom  of  God.  For  although  the  former,  let  them 
consist  in  what  they  will,  whether  in  prayers,  or  preaching,  or 
any  other  devotional  exercises,  are  altogether  evil :  so  on  the 
contrary,  those  of  the  latter,  let  them  consist  in  what  they  may, 
whether  in  ploughing,  in  reaping,  or  in  any  handicraft  labour, 
or  in  any  other  service,  temporal  or  spuitual,  as  they  will  in  all 
be  accompanied  with  the  peace  and  presence  of  their  heavenly 
Father,  so  all  they  do,  will  be  righteous,  and  will  be  imputed  to 
them  as  such.  And  these,  and  these  only,  will  witness  the  bless- 
ing pronounced  by  the  royal  psalmist,  where  he  saith  :  "  Blessed 
is  he  whose  transgression  is  forgiven,  whose  sin  is  covered.  Blessed 
is  the  man  unto  whom  the  Lord  imputeth  not  iniquity,  and  in 
whose  spirit  tiiere  is  no  guile."  And  who  are  those  whom  the 
royal  prophet  here  designates ;  why  none  but  such  as  have  care- 
fully and  strictly  adhered  to  the  teaching  of  the  grace  of  God  ; 
and  who  by  its  teaching  and  aid  have  denied  themselves  of  all 
ungodliness,  and  worldly  lusts ;  and  have  come  to  live  soberly, 
righteously,  and  godly  in  this  present  world. 

And  in  order  to  prove  the  consistency  of  Christian  ministers 
taking  pay,  and  making  contracts  with  the  people  for  their 
preaching,  and  letting  themselves  out  to  the  liighest  bidders,  he 
brought  fonvard  quotations  from  the  same  Paul,  who  is  so  very 
severe  against  hirelings ;  showing,  both  by  his  example  and 
precepts,  that  it  is  more  blessed  to  give  than  to  receive  ;  and  that 
parents  or  leaders  ought  to  care  for  the  children,  and  not  the 
children  for  the  parents. 

TJie  quotations  he  brought  forward  were  foimded  principally 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


219. 


on  these  two  passages  from  the  epistle  to  tlie  Corinthians  :  "  Do 
ye  not  know  that  they  which  minister  about  holy  things  live  of 
the  things  of  the  temple,  and  they  which  wait  at  the  altar  are 
partakers  with  the  altar  ?  Even  so  hath  the  Lord  ordained,  that 
they  which  preach  the  gospel  should  live  of  the  gospel." 

In  order  to  understand  correctly  how  far  proof  will  arise  fron 
these  passages  of  scripture,  it  will  be  necessary  to  consider  the 
ground  upon  which  the  priesthood  was  established  under  th« 
law ;  and  likewise  the  reason  and  ground,  upon  which  their 
maintenance  was  instituted  :  for  it  was  all  a  work  of  perfect  wis- 
dom. And  first,  the  dispensation  of  the  law  was  outward  and 
local ;  so  likewise  was  the  priesthood :  none  being  eligible  to  that 
office  but  the  family  of  Levi :  and  in  consequence  of  their  being 
appointed  to  that  office,  they  were  deprived  of  having  their  por- 
tion or  allotment  in  the  land ;  but  the  Lord  was  to  be  their  por- 
tion :  except  that  they  were  to  have  room  for  residence,  and  some 
suburbs  about  their  dwellings,  for  their  convenience.  Their 
office  was  to  kill  and  prepare  the  sacrifices  which  the  people 
brought  of  their  holy  things,  as  offerings  to  the  Lord ;  so  that 
they  were  under  the  necessity  of  doing  a  gieat  deal  of  manual 
labour  for  the  people.  Therefore,  in  order  that  they  might  have 
a  Uvelihood  among  their  brethren,  the  Lord  had  let  one-twelfth, 
that  is  Levi's  lot,  to  farni  among  his  brethren ;  and  they  were 
boimd  to  return  to  their  brethren,  the  Levites,  one-tentli  of  their 
increase ;  to  reward  them  not  only  for  the  abundant  manual 
labour  they  were  bound  to  do  for  them,  but  also  in  consideration 
of  their  having  the  improvement  and  profits  arising  from  Levi's 
portion  of  the  promised  land. 

Now  to  make  a  right  bearing  between  the  shadow  and  sub- 
stance, and  render  it  eligible  under  the  gospel  for  its  ministers  to 
take  pay,  they  must  be  snich  as  are  immediately  called,  as  was 
the  house  of  Levi ;  and  be  deprived  of  any  allotment  in  the  land, 
except  room  for  residence,  and  some  small  suburbs  :  they  must 
likewise  be  under  the  unavoidable  obligation  of  doing  a  great 
deal  of  manual  labour  in  outward  things,  or  otherwise  they  are 
not  entitled  to  any  outward  pay  :  and  all  this  only  as  their  duty 
to  him,  who  hath  called  and  appointed  them,  without  nftiking 


220 


JOURNAL  OF 


any  contract  with  the  people  at  all  for  their  service  ;  for  this  was 

not  admissible  under  that  dispensation:  and  all  that  did  were 
reproached  b}'  the  Lord  s  prophets  as  hirelings.  An  instance  to 
the  point  is  the  case  of  Slicah,  who  had  a  house  of  idol  gods ;  and 
he  hired  a  Levite  to  l)e  his  priest,  and  gave  him  for  his  service 
ten  shekels  of  silver  by  the  year,  and  a  suit  of  apparel,  and  his 
victuals.  Indeed  we  have  in  this  Levite  a  true  specimen  of  a 
hirehng  ;  for  when  the  Danites  proposed  to  his  consideration, 
which  would  be  best  for  him,  whether  to  be  a  priest  to  the  house 
of  one  man,  or  to  a  tribe  and  family  in  Israel,  he  soon  solved  the 
question  ;  and  it  made  his  heart  glad,  and  he  took  Micha's  ephod, 
teraphim,  and  graven  image,  and  added  theft  to  covetousness ; 
and  went  with  the  Danites,  and  became  their  idol  priest. 

Secondly,  we  are  next  to  consider  the  perfect  analogy  between 
the  service  of  the  priesthood  under  the  law,  and  their  wages, 
agreeable  to  Paul's  expressions  :  "  Do  ye  not  know  that  they 
which  minister  about  holy  things,  hve  of  the  things  of  the. tem- 
ple, and  they  which  wait  at  the  altar,  are  partakers  with  the 
altar?"  Now  the  things  of  the  temple  and  of  the  altar  were  all 
the  Lord's  things  ;  and  as  the  priests  and  ministers  were  also  the 
Lord's,  he  rewarded  thorn  out,  of  liis  nwn  bnly  things,  and  justice 
required  that  it  should  be  so.  Therefore  the  priests  under  the  law 
had  no  right  to  call  on  the  people  for  any  pay,  because  there  was 
no  contrart  between  them :  so  likewise  under  the  gospel,  tire  Lord's 
true  ministers  must  be  such  as  are  immediately  called  of  God,  as 
was  Aaron  :  but  as  there  is  no  outward  holy  land  under  the  gos- 
pel, so  neither  is  there  any  outward  holy  offerings  or  sacrifices, 
nor  any  outward  holy  temple  or  altar  of  man's  building ;  so  like- 
wise no  outward  victims  to  be  slain  or  consecrated,  hence  no 
outward  reward  :  but  the  Lord's  ministers  under  the  gospel  are 
all  called  and  c<)mmissioued  by  his  spirit,  and  clothed  with  his 
power  and  authority  to  preach  the  gospel,  not  with  wisdom 
of  words,  lest  the  cross  of  Christ  should  be  made  of  none  effect. 
For  the  preaching  of  the  cross  is  to  them  that  perish  foolishness, 
but  unto  such  as  are  saved  it  is  the  power  of  God.  Hence  those 
who  preach  the  gospel  Mve  of  the  gospel ;  that  is,  as  the  gospel  is 
the  pmver  of  God,  which  is  communicated  to  the  people  by  gos- 


ELIAS  HICKS, 


221 


pel  ministry,  by  which  they  are  fed  and  comforted  spiritually,  as 
the  Israelites  were  outwardly,  by  their  outward  sacrifices,  of 
which  the  priests  who  ministered  took  their  share  \vith  the  people  : 
so  likewise  the  ministers  of  the  gospel,  who  minister  to  the  peo- 
ple spiritually  in  holy  things ;  they  also  take  their  share,  and  are 
made  to  rejoice  together  spiritually  and  mutually.  And  herein 
consists  the  true  analogy  between  the  shadow  and  substance ;  the 
first  being  the  type,  which  consisted  in  outward  things,  and  the 
latter  the  antitype,  consisting  in  spiritual  things.  For  if  the 
reward  of  the  Lord's  ministers  under  the  gospel  for  their  gospel 
labours  is  to  consist  in  outward  temporal  things,  and  Ukewise  the 
reward  of  the  Lord's  ministers  under  the  law  was  of  the  same 
kind,  then  it  would  no  longer  hold  as  is  generally  agreed  by 
Christians,  that  the  first  is  type,  and  the  latter  its  antitype  :  but 
it  will  be  only  type  for  type,  and  shadow  for  shadow  ;  of  course 
we  must  look  for  another  dispensation  in  order  to  do  away  the 
shadow,  and  make  way  for  the  substance.  "  But  thanks  be  to 
God,  which  giveth  us  the  victory,  through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ." 
He  is  the  end  of  the  law  to  all  those  who  beheve,  and  are 
witnesses  of  his  spiritual  appearance  in  their  hearts,  to  take 
away  sin  and  finish  transgression,  and  fulfil  £iU  righteousness,  in 
those  who  willingly  deny  themselves,  and  take  up  their  cross 
daily,  and  follow  him  in  the  way  of  regeneration.  Even  so  let 
it  be,  saith  my  spirit,  with  the  spirits  of  the  faithful.  Amen  for 
ever. 

Sixth  day.  I  had  an  appointed  meeting  in  the  town  of  Ja- 
maica, at  the  third  hour  in  the  afternoon.  It  was  for  the  most 
part  a  favoured  meeting,  although  long  in  gathering.  The 
truths  delivered  had  an  aflTecting  reach  on  many  minds,  and  I 
was  made  thankful  for  the  precious  solemnity  which  prevailed 
over  the  meeting,  and  we  parted  under  a  comfortable  sense 
thereof  After  this  I  returned  home,  and  found  my  family  well; 
and  my  mind  was  clothed  with  peace^  which  favour  inspires 
grateful  acknowledgments  to  the  bountiful  Author  of  every 
blessing. 

Seventh  day.    Rested  with  my  family. 

First  day.    Attended  our  meeting  to  good  satisfaction.  The 


222 


JOURNAL  OP 


three  following  days  spent  with  my  family,  and  in  my  family 
concerns. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  preparative  meeting,  previous  to  the 
sitting  of  which,  I  attended  a  funeral  of  one  of  our  neighbours. 
The  corpse  was  laid  in  our  burial-ground,  and  the  people,  after 
the  interment,  came  into  the  meeting.  It  was  a  larg.e  collection, 
to  whom  the  truths  of  the  gospel  were  largely  opened,  arid  the 
humbling  power  of  truth  spread  over  the  assembly,  contriting 
many  hearts. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.    Spent  in  my  family  concerns. 

First  day,  the  16th.  Attended  our  own  meeting,  sat  it  through 
in  silence.  It  was  exercising  in  the  forepart,  in  which  I  felt  re- 
duced into  a  state  of  baptism,  with  and  for  the  dead :  but  as  I 
abode  in  the  patience,  toward  the  close  light  sprang  up  and  I  was 
relieved  from  the  burden. 

Second  day.  I  spent  in  my  temporal  concerns.  What  a 
strict  and  continual  guard  and  watch  it  requires,  when  engaged 
in  any  worldly  business,  to  keep  the  mind  free  and  loose  from 
every  thing  of  a  terrestrial  nature;  so  that,  at  the  first  beck  or 
motion  of  the  divine  intelligence,  we  may  be  ready  to  obey,  and 
submit  willingly  to  its  holy  requiring,  without  consulting  with 
flesh  and  blood. 

Third  day.  I  attended  the  funeral  of  a  deceased  Friend.  A 
meeting  was  held  on  the  occasion  at  the  place  of  her  residence. 
The  neighbourhood  were  mostly  of  the  Presbyterian  order,  many 
of  whom  attended.  I  had  an  open  time  among  them,  to  declare 
of  the  things  pertaining  to  the  kingdom  of  heaven  ;  and  many 
gospel  truths  were  plainly  set  forth  and  exalted  over  all  untruth 
and  errour.  It  was  indeed  a  season  thankfully  to  be  remember- 
ed, and  my  heart  was  bowed  in  grateful  acknowledgments  to  the 
great  and  blessed  Author  of  all  oiu-  mercies. 

Fourth  day.  At  the  funeral  yesterday,  I  was  requested  by 
several  of  my  friends  to  attend  the  funeral  of  an  individual 
who  had  been  a  professor  among  the  Methodists,  but  whom  I 
had  for  some  time  believed  was  pretty  fully  convinced  of  the 
principles  of  our  profession  ;  but  the  trial  of  parting  with  his  fel- 
low professors,  and  making  a  full  surrender,  had  kept  him  back, 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


223 


until  being  brought  on  a  bed  of  languishing,  he  yielded  and 
acknowledged  to  the  truth,  and  desired  that  in  future  his  family 
would  attend  Friend's  meetings  :  and  towards  his  close,  in  order 
to  give  full  testimony  to  his  belief,  requested  in  a  solemn  manner 
that  after  his  decease  his  body  might  be  taken  into  Friends' 
meeting-house  at  Bethpage,  which  was  not  far  from  his  dweUing, 
and  a  meeting  held  there  at  his  funeral,  and  desired  that  I  might 
be  requested  to  attend.  On  consideration  of  the  subject.  Friends 
were  easy  to  comply  with  his  request,  and  a  meeting  was  held 
accordingly.  It  proved  a  very  solemn  affecting  time ;  many 
hearts  were  tendered,  and  much  brokenness  and  contrition  were 
manifest  in  the  meeting,  through  the  prevalence  of  the  divine 
pow^er  which  accompanied  the  word  preached.  Surely  it  was  the 
Lord's  doing,  and  truly  marvellous  in  the  eyes  of  his  people. 
And  oh !  saith  my  spirit,  what  shall  we  render  unto  the  Lord 
for  all  his  benefits,  for  his  mercies  are  new  every  morning. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  monthly  meeting,  and  on  sixth  day 
our  preparative  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders.  In  both  of 
these,  my  mind  was  engaged  to  stir  up  Friends  to  more  watch- 
ftjlness  and  circumspection,  for  the  right  ordering  of  the  concerns 
of  the  society,  and  maintenance  of  ovir  Christian  discipline. 

Seventh  day.  Spent  in  my  family  concerns,  and  ended  the 
week  with  a  quiet  mind. 

First  day,  the  23d.  Attended  our  meeting  in  silence.  It  was 
rather  an  exercising  dull  time  ;  but  we  ought  not  to  murmur,  for 
if  we  had  had  our  deserts,  it  might  have  been  more  so. 

The  rest  of  this  week  principally  taken  up  in  attending  our 
quarterly  meeting  in  New- York.  It  was  in  general  rather  an 
exercising  time  ;  for  not  only  the  answers  to  the  queries  from  the 
several  monthly  meetings,  manifested  many  deficiencies  as  to  the 
right  support  of  our  Christian  testimonies  and  discipline,  but  the 
diversity  of  sentiment  among  the  active  members  respecting  the 
full  support  of  our  testimony  against  war,  also  produced  much 
exercise  to  the  faithful ;  especially  with  regard  to  the  active  com- 
pUance  in  the  payment  of  a  tax,  levied  by  the  general  govern- 
ment of  the  United  States,  for  carrying  on  w^ar,  and  other  purposes 
of  the  government,  which  many  Friends  beheved  could  not  be 


224 


JOURNAL  OF 


actively  complied  with,  consistently  with  our  testimony  on  that 
head.  For  refusing  the  payment  of  this  tax,  a  number  of 
Friends  had  suffered  in  their  property  by  distraint,  to  a  considera- 
ble amount  more  than  the  tax  demanded,  some  even  three  or 
four  fold  ;  whilst  some  others  actively  complied  and  paid  the  tax, 
and  justified  themselves  in  so  doing,  which  caused  considerable 
altercation  in  the  meeting :  nevertheless,  I  believe.  Friends  were 
generally  preserved  in  a  good  degree  of  harmony  with  each 
other. 

My  mmd  was  deeply  baptized  into  the  weak  state  of  society, 
and  I  laboured  in  the  ability  received  to  stimulate  and  encourage 
Friends  to  faithfulness  and  perseverance,  that  so  all  our  precious 
testimonies  for  the  Prince  of  Peace  might  be  held  up  and  exalted 
as  a  standard  to  the  nations. 

First  day,  the  30th.  A  silent  meeting.  The  rest  of  this  week 
spent  in  nay  family  cares,  except  attending  our  fifth  day  meeting, 
which  I  sat  in  silence. 

First  day,  the  7th  of  5th  month.  I  sat  our  meeting  again  in 
silence.  The  repeated  seasons  of  rest  that  I  have  witnessed, 
since  returning  from  my  arduous  labour  in  New- York,  have 
brought  to  my  remembrance  the  saying  of  the  dear  Master  to 
his  disciples,  when  they  returned  from  the  service  they  had  been 
sent  about,  in  visiting  and  preaching  repentance  to  the  Israelites, 
and  heaUng  their  sick,  &c. :  "  Come  ye  yourselves  apart  uito  a 
desert  place,  and  rest  awhile."  I  accounted  it  a  favour,  for  which 
I  was  thankful  to  the  boimtiful  Author  of  all  our  blessings. 

No  particular  call  to  any  religious  service  during  this  week, 
except  in  attention  to  our  preparative  meeting.  Silent  in  the 
meeting  for  worship. 

First  day,  the  14th.  Indisposition  of  body  prevented  my 
attending  meeting.  I  therefore  spent  the  day  quietly  at  home ; 
and  in  leading  a  portion  of  Moshiem's  Ecclesiastical  History  of 
the  Fifth  Century,  and  which  is  indeed  enough  to  astonish  any 
sensible,  considerate  man,  to  think  how  the  professors  of  that 
day  could  be  hardy  enough  to  call  themselves  Christians,  while 
using  every  artifice  that  their  human  wisdom  could  invent  to 
raise  themselves  to  power  and  opulence,  and  endeavouring  to 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


225 


crush  down  their  opposers  by  ahnost  every  craelty  that  power, 
envy  and  maUce  could  inflict  ,  to  the  entire  scandal  of  the  Chris- 
tian name ;  and  changing  the  pure,  meek,  merciful,  and  unde- 
filed  religion  of  Jesus,  into  an  impure,  unmerciful,  cruel,  bloody, 
and  persecuting  religion.  For  each  of  those  varied  sects  of  pro- 
fessed Christians,  in  their  turn,  as  they  got  the  power  of  the  civil 
magistrate  on  their  side,  would  endeavour,  by  the  sword,  and 
severe  edicts,  followed  by  banishment,  to  reduce  and  destroy  all 
those  who  dissented  from  them,  although  their  opinions  were 
not  a  whit  jnore  friendly  to  real  genuine  Christianity,  than  the 
tenets  of  their  opposers  ;  for  all  were,  in  great  measure,  if  not 
entirely,  adulterated  and  apostatized  from  the  true  spirit  of  Chris- 
tianity, which  breathes  peace  on  earth,  and  good  will  to  man. 

The  re^t  of  the  week  I  spent  in  my  family  cares,  except  fifth 
day,  which  was  the  time  of  our  monthly  meeting  ;  in  which  the 
women's  meeting  brought  forward,  for  our  consideration  and 
concurrence,  requests  to  be  joined  in  membership  for  eight  indi- 
viduals. Six  of  these  were  children,  at  the  request  of  their  father  ; 
another,  a  minor  of  about  ten  years  of  age,  who  appeared  very 
desirous  of  membership :  she  sent  forwai-d  her  request,  joined  by 
her  parents.  The  other  was  an  adult  of  a  promising  aspect,  the 
mother  of  several  children.  She  had  been  brought  up  and  edu- 
cated in  the  Episcopal  profession  ;  but  being  favoured  with  an 
opportunity  of  attending  Friends'  meetings,  she  was  convinced  of 
the  truth  as  held  by  us ;  and  cheerfully  submitted  to  the  cross, 
accounting  the  reproaches  of  Christ  a  greater  treasure,  than  all 
the  comfort  and  delights  thai  could  be  found  among  her  former 
associates  in  an  outside  pompous  profession.  Their  requests  were 
all  admitted  by  the  meeting ;  and  it  was,  I  think,  a  comfortable 
instructive  season. 

First  day,  the  21st.  While  sitting  in  our  meeting  my  mind 
was  led  into  a  consideration  of  the  testimony  of  the  apostle  John, 
where  he  assures  us,  agreeably  to  truth  and  right  reason,  that 
God  is  love,  and  thnt  they  who  dwell  in  love,  dwell  in  God,  and 
God  in  them.  My  mind  was  opened  to  set  forth  to  the  people 
the  excellency  of  this  state  and  the  certainty  of  its  attainment,  by 
all  such  as  sincerely  desire  salvation  ;  and  in  order  therefor,  are 

29 


226 


JOURN.AL  OP 


willing,  through  and  by  the  leading  and  teaching  of  divine  grace, 
Avhicli  tlie  apostle  Paul  assures  us,  agreeably  to  our  own  sensible 
experience,  has  appeared  to  aU  men,  to  forego  all  our  selfish  and 
creaturely  inclinations,  and  to  deny  self ;  and  by  bearing  our  cross 
daily,  come  to  a  full  crucifixion  of  the  old  man,  with  all  his  cor- 
rupt and  ungodly  deeds.    Wc  thereby  come  to  know  a  putting 
on  the  new  man,  even  Christ,  or  a  salvation  state,  agreeably  to 
another  declaration  of  the  same  apostle,  where  he  asserts : 
"  Therefore,  if  any  man  be  in  Christ,  he  is  a  new  creature ;  old 
things  are  passed  away,  behold  all  things  are  become  new,  and 
all  things  are  of  God."    I  was  likewise  led  to  show  the  good 
fruits  that  would  be  the  natural  result  of  such  a  state,  as  certain 
as  good  fruit  is  produced  by  a  good  tree ;  for  we  should  no  longer 
love  as  man  loves  in  his  fallen  state,  from  a  selfish  motive,  self 
being  slain;  but  we  shoidd  love  as  God  loves,  with  a  disinterested 
love,  and  then  we  should  love,  not  our  friends  and  neighbours 
only,  but  our  greatest  enemies  also;  and  we  should  become  quali- 
fied sincerely  to  pray  to  God  for  them.    We  should  then  be 
brought  to  discover,  that  all  such  among  Christians  as  pray  for 
the  downfall,  or  overcoming  of  their  enemies  by  force  of  war,  or 
by  any  other  means  than  pure  disinterested  love,  pray  not  in  a 
Christian  spirit,  nor  by  the  leading  and  influence  of  the  spirit  of 
God  ;  but  in  their  own  spirit,  and  by  the  leading  and  influence 
of  the  spirit  of  antichrist.   Therefore,  such  prayers  are  not  heard, 
but  are  an  alximiiiation  in  the  sight  of  a  pure  and  holy  God,  who 
cannot  behold  iniquity  Avith  approbation.    My  mind  was  largely 
and  impressively  opened  on  the  subject^  and  with  solemn  weight 
I  left  it  upon  the  auditory,  which  was  larger  than  usual :  may  it 
have  its  desired  eflfect,  is  the  sincere  desire  of  my  spirit. 

Second  day.  I  attended  the  funerals  of  two  elderly  men  of 
Bethpage  meeting.  They  Avere  neighbours ;  and  were  both 
interred  in  the  meeting's  burial-ground  at  the  same  time.  One 
of  them  was  a  member ;  and  the  other  was  educated  among 
Friends,  but  had  lost  his  right.  A  meeting  W'as  held  on  the 
occasion,  and  there  was  a  large  collection  of  people.  It  proved 
a  solemn,  and,  I  tmst,  an  instructive  time  to  some  present :  may 
it  fasten  as  a  nail  in  a  sure  place. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


227 


The  rest  of  this  week,  except  the  usual  weekly  attendance  of 
Qur  meeting,  was  spent  in  family  cares,  and  in  preparation  for  the 
attendance  of  our  approaching  j-early  meeting.  Indisposition  in 
a  branch  of  my  family,  prevented  my  attending  the  meeting  for 
Ministers  and  Elders ;  but  got  to  the  city  in  time  to  attend  the 
first  day  meetings.  In  the  morning  I  was  at  Pearl-street,  and 
in  the  afternoon  at  Liberty-street ;  and  although  the  latter  was 
pretty  large,  and  in  a  good  degree  solemn,  yet  it  was  an  exer- 
cising season  to  the  living  sensible  members. 

In  those  large  meetings,  where  Friends  are  collected  from 
various  parts,  the  weak  and  the  strong  together,  and  especially 
in  thjse  for  worship,  it  is  essentially  necessary  that  Friends 
get  inward,  and  wait  in  their  proper  gifts,  keeping  in  view  their 
standing  and  place  in  societ\ ,  especially  those  in  (he  ministry. 
For  otherwise  there  is  danger,  even  fiom  a  desire  to  do  good,  of 
being  caught  with  the  enemies'  transformations,  particularly  with 
those  that  are  young,  and  inexpericncetl ;  for  we  seldom  sit  in 
meetings  but  some  prospect  presents,  which  has  a  likeness,  in  its 
first  impression,  to  the  right  thing  ;  and  as  these  feel  naturally 
fearfiU  of  speaking  in  large  meetiiigs,  and  in  the  presence  of 
their  elderly  friends,  and  apprehending  they  are  likely  to  have 
something  to  offer,  they  are  suddenly  struck  with  the  fear  of 
man,  and  thereby  prevented  from  centering  down  to  their  gifts, 
so  as  to  discover  Avhether  it  is  a  right  motion  or  not ;  and  the 
accuser  of  the  brethren,  who  is  always  ready  with  his  trans- 
formations to  deceive,  charges  with  unfaithfulness  and  disobe- 
dience, by  which  they  are  driven  to  act  without  any  clear  prospect, 
and  find  little  to  say,  except  making  an  apology  for  their  thus 
standing  ;  by  which  they  often  disturb  the  meeting,  and  prevent 
others,  who  are  rightly  called  to  the  work,  and  thereby  wound 
the  minds  of  the  living  baptized  members. 

On  second  day  the  meeting  for  disciphne  opened,  and  con- 
tinued by  adjournments  until  sixth  day.  Although  divers 
weaknesses  were  manifest,  in  transacting  the  business,  for 
want  of  a  deep  indwelling  with  the  pure  spring  of  life,  and 
each  patiently  abiding  in  his  own  proper  gift,  without  envying 
others,  yet,  I  think,  in  the  main  n  was  a  favoured  meeting 


228 


JOURNAL  OP 


Divers  brethren  were  largely  opened  to  speak  to  subjects  of  con- 
cern, which  came  Ijeforc  vis,  in  the  life,  and  in  the  clear  demon- 
stration of  the  spirit,  as  scribes  well  instructed,  bringing  out  of 
the  heavenly  treasury  things  new  and  old. 

First  day,  tlie  4th  of  6th  monlh.  Being  invited  to  the  ftmeral 
of  a  young  woman  within  the  compass  of  Westbury  meeting,  I 
attended  that  meeting,  which  was  very  large,  much  more  so  than 
usual,  occasioned  in  part  by  the  funeral.  Although  the  forepart 
of  the  meeting  was  dull  and  exercising,  yet,  as  my  mmd  cen- 
tered under  a  patient  exercise  and  travail,  way  gradually  opened 
to  communication,  in  which  I  was  enabled,  through  adorable 
condescension,  largely  and  livingly  to  declare  to  the  people  of 
the  things  concerning  the  kingdom  of  heaven,  and  their  own 
present  and  everlasting  peace.  It  was  a  season  of  great  favour, 
thankfully  to  be  remembered. 

The  rest  of  this  week  I  spent  at  home,  in  peace  of  mind. 

Fiist  day,  the  llth.  My  mind  was  brought  under  exercise, 
as  I  sat  in  our  meeting,  in  remembrance  of  Paul's  declaration, 
where  he  says,  "  For  all  seek  their  own,  not  the  things  which 
are  Jesus  Christ's."  As  I  continued  under  the  exercise,  way 
opened  to  communication,  which  brought  a  comfortable  solemnity 
over  the  meeting. 

Second  and  third  days.  I  spent  in  attending  our  meeting  for 
sufferings  in  New- York ;  an  appointment  whicli  I  have  been 
under  for  nearly  forty  years. 

Fourth  day.  Most  of  this  day  spent  in  some  necessary  repairs 
about  my  house.    Much  is  saved  by  timely  and  prudent  care. 

Fifth  day.  Was  oirr  monthly  meeting,  at  which  we  had  the 
acceptable  company  of  our  friend  John  Comly,  a  fellow-labourer 
in  the  gospel,  with  whom  I  felt  near  sympathy  and  unity  in 
travail.  I  accompanied  him  the  next  day  to  a  meeting  he  had 
appointed  at  Martinicock ;  in  which  he  was  favoured  with  a 
pretty  large  testimony,  in  the  plainness  and  simplicity  of  the 
gospel.  I  took  my  leave  of  him  and  his  companion  Stephen 
Comfort  that  afternoon,  and  returned  home. 

Seventh  day.  Spent  in  my  common  avocations,  and  the 
week  closed  with  a  peaceful  mind. 


KLIAS  HICKS. 


229 


CHAPTER  X. 

Engagements  at  and  about  home,  1815. — Visit  to  tlie  monthly  meetings  within 
the  circuit  of  Nine  Partners  quarterly  meeting,  1815. 

First  day,  the  18th  of  6th  montli,  1815.  My  mind  towards 
the  close  of  our  meeting,  was  opened  into  a  view  of  the  excellency 
and  advantage  of  having  our  minds  actuated  invariably,  by  a 
principle  of  strict  and  impartial  justice,  and  of  having  just  ideas 
and  apprehensions  of  the  divine  character.  For  nothing  short 
of  this,  is  able  to  establish  our  faith  in  God  on  its  right  basis,  and 
to  give  us  an  unshaken  hope  and  trust  in  his  divine  sufficiency, 
and  bring  us  to  experience  that  love  of  our  benevolent  Creator, 
and  of  our  fellow  creatures  which  casteth  out  all  fear.  As  I 
communicated,  the  prospect  enlarged  and  brought  a  solemn 
weight  over  the  meeting,  and  we  parted  under  a  sense  of  the 
favour. 

The  pest  of  the  week  was  spent  in  close  attention  to  my  tem- 
poral concerns,  except  attending  our  fifth  day  meeting. 

First  day,  the  25th.  Sat  our  meeting  to-day  in  solemn  silence, 
being  much  depressed  in  miod  on  account  of  the  improper  con- 
duct of  some  of  my  friends,  fellow  members  in  society,  by  which 
I  apprehended  the  noble  cause  wc  had  espoused  was  in  danger 
of  being  hurt,  and  tlie  unity  of  the  Church  broken,  which  to  me 
was  a  cause  of  real  sorrow  of  heart. 

Except  attending  our  fifth  day  meeting,  which  I  sat  in  silence, 
the  rest  of  this  week  was  occupied  in  my  common  avocations, 
and  ended  with  a  peaceful  mind,  which  is  a  hidden  treasure  of 
more  value  than  the  golden  wedge  of  Ophir. 

First  day,  the  2d  of  7th  month.  As  I  sat  in  our  meeting,  my 
mind  was  early  impressed  with  that  important  scripture  passage 


230 


JOURNAL  OF 


of  the  psalmist :  "  Let  God  arise,  let  his  enemies  be  scattered." 
It  led  to  comnumication,  in  w  hich  I  w  as  largely  opened  to  set 
forth  the  very  necessary  truths  it  comprehended,  especially  as  it 
regards  man's  salvation.  For  it  sliows  clearly  that  man  may 
prevent  his  thus  arising,  and  thereby  hinder  his  own  salvation  : 
and  it  also  shows,  that  unless  we  know  him  to  arise  and  become 
supreme  and  chief  ruler  in  our  hearts,  agreeably  to  his  own  good 
will  and  pleasure,  we  cannot  l^e  saved  nor  come  to  know  his  ene- 
mies to  be  scattered.  Therefore  it  becomes  us  as  poor  helpless 
creatures,  patiently  to  wait,  and  quietly  to  hope  for  his  arising, 
with  penitent  hearts  and  willing  minds,  read}'  to  receive  him  in 
the  way  of  his  coming  ;  altliough  it  may  be  "as  a  refiner  with  fire, 
or  as  a  fuller  with  soap."  It  is  also  necessary  for  us  to  know  this 
arising  to  be  within  us  and  not  without  us  ;  and  to  be  widr 
power,  binding  the  man  of  sin  and  son  of  perdition,  which  is 
self,  or  the  strong  man  armed  ;  whose  goods,  while  he  rules,  are 
at  peace :  but  when  we  permit  a  stionger  than  he,  who  only  is 
God,  to  come  in  or  arise  with  power,  "  he  will  bind  the  strong  man 
armed,  and  cast  him  out ;  and  then  he  will  spoil  his  goods,"  that 
is,  cleanse  the  heail  from  all  the  old  rubbish  of  sin  and  unclean- 
ness,  and  purif)'  his  temple  and  make  it  a  fit  receptacle  for  his 
hoUness  to  dwell  in.  It  was  a  season  of  favour.  Many  gospel 
truths  were  clearly  opened  to  the  auditory  who  gave  solid  atten- 
tion ;  may  they  fix  as  a  nail  in  a  sure  place.  * 

I  was  under  considerable  bodily  indisposition  most  of  tliis  week. 
On  fifth  day,  so  much  so,  as  almost  to  give  up  the  prospect  of 
getting  to  meeting ;  but  I  put  on  m)-  usual  resolution  and  went, 
and  was  glad  in  so  doing,  as  there  I  met  with  that  peace  of  God 
that  passeth  all  understanding,  which  is  only  knowrt  bj^  being 
felt.  I  had  to  declare  to  my  friends  how  good  it  is  to  trust  in  the 
Lord  with  all  the  heart,  and  lean  not  to  our  own  understandings, 
lest  they  fail  us. 

On  sixth  day  I  attended  the  funeral  of  a  kinsman,  a  neigh- 
bour, who  had  spent  much  of  his  life  in  a  careless  irreligious 
manner,  vcr}'  seldom  attending:  any  religious  meetings,  and  was 
very  ignorant  as  it  respected  the  things  of  God  and  his  own  sal- 
vation ;  but  for  a  year  or  more  before  his  death,  he  was  greatly 


ELIAS  HICKS.  231 

afflicted  with  bodily  indisposition,  from  which  he  suffered  long 
and  very  deeply.  It  brought  him  to  a  solemn  consideration 
respecting  his  latter  end,  and  I  had  a  hope  it  worked  for  his 
good,  as  he  manifested  a  state  of  resignation  ;  so  that  he  bore  his 
affliction  with  much  patience  and  quietude  of  mind.  My  heart 
and  my  mouth  were  opezied  on  the  occasion,  to  warn  the  people, 
and  to  call  their  attention  to  the  necessity  of  an  early  preparation 
for  death  ;  showing  them  that  it  bordered  eA  en  on  presumption, 
for  such  poor  impotent  helpless  creatures  as  we  are,  whose  time 
is  dealt  to  us  by  moments,  even  to  dare  to  close  our  eyes  to  sleep, 
without  first  being  well  assured  that  ovn-  peace  was  made  with 
our  great  and  gracious  Creator.  IMany  minds  were  considerably 
humbled,  and  1  hope  the  laijour  will  not  be  lost,  but  be  as  bread 
cast  upon  the  waters,  that  some  may  gather  after  many  days. 

First  daj-,  the  9th.  We  had  a  comfortable  favoured  meeting 
to-day.  My  mind  was  set  at  liberty  to  preach  the  gospel  in  the 
clear  demonstration  of  the  spirit ;  and  to  show  vmto  the  people 
that  the  reason  why  tliey  were  not  healed  of  their  many  infirmi- 
ties, was  not  because  there  was  not  "  balm  in  Gilead,"  and  "  a  Phy- 
sician there  ;"  but  because  they  were  not  willing  to  seek  him  in 
the  right  way,  and  receive  him  in  the  way  of  his  coming,  which 
is  inwardly,  as  a  refiner  with  fire,  or  a  fuller  with  soap  ;  to  purify 
from  all  the  old  leaven  of  self,  and  to  cleanse  the  heart  from  aU 
self-righteousness,  and  self-sufficiency;  that  a  thorough  crucifixion 
of  the  old  man,  with  all  his  unrighteous  deeds  may  be  witnessed; 
and  the  creature  set  at  liberty  to  serve  the  Lord  in  newness  of 
hfe.  The  meeting  closed  with  solemn  supplication  and  thanks- 
giving to  the  Lord  for  his  continued  mercy. 

Second,  third,  and  fourth  days.  Spent  in  my  family  affairs, 
mostly  attended  with  sweet  peace  of  mind  ;  although  accompa- 
nied with  much  bodily  pain,  which  is  more  or  less  my  common  lot. 
But  what  a  great  portion  of  severe  bodily  pain  may  be  endured 
without  a  murmuring  thought,  while  accompanied  with  true 
peace  of  mind,  and  a  conscience  void  of  offence  toward  God  eind 
man  :  a  rich  consoling  treasure. 

Fifth  day.  This  being  the  tirrie  of  our  preparative  meeting,  at 
which  our  queries  were  answered,  I  had  to  admonish  Friends  to 


232 


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feel  deeply  after  their  own  states.  For  as  it  is  by  individuals 
that  meetings  are  composed,  so  every  individual  ought  to  know 
how  far  his  particular  state  corresponds  with  what  is  queried 
after  ;  that  so  by  a  united  labour,  and  an  inward  investigation 
of  our  own  particular  states,  we  may  be  enaljled  to  form  true  and 
righteous  answers  to  the  superiour  meetings.  For  if  they  are 
false,  it  will  be  accounted  lying  and  that  not  unto  men,  but  unto 
God  ;  and  thereby  our  queries  be  rendered  very  hurtful  to  us, 
instead  of  being  helpfid. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  I  occupied  myself  in  my  usual 
business,  not  feeding  any  particidar  rehgious  draft  ;  except  the 
necessity  of  keeping  up  the  daily  watcli,  that  no  intruding  thoughts 
lead  into  temptation,  or  prevent  my  daUy  converse  with  the  God 
of  my  salvation  ;  whose  presiding  fear,  I  have  long  experienced 
to  be  the  only  sure  antidote  against  all  evil. 

First  day,  the  16th.  My  mind  was  led  forth  in  our  meeting 
to-day  in  a  large  clear  testimony,  clothed  with  gospel  authority, 
which  was  introduced  with  the  following  apostohc  exhortation  : 
"  Let  love  be  witliout  dissimulation.  Abhor  that  which  is  evil ; 
cleave  to  that  which  is  good.  Be  kindly  aflectioned  one  to  an- 
other with  brotherly  love  ;  in  honour  preferring  one  another."'  I 
was  led  to  show  that  this  undissembling  love  was  not  to  be  knoAvn 
by  man  in  his  fallen  nature ;  hut  only  by  the  regenerated  soid, 
the  new  man  in  Christ,,  who  had  come  to  know,  in  degree,  a 
partaking  of  the  divine  nature,  as  no  other  nature  is  congenial 
with  this  love  ;  a  love,  which  the  beloved  ajxtstle  tells  vls,  casteth 
out  all  fear.  It  was  a  season  of  favour,  thankfully  to  be  remem- 
bered. 

The  remaining  part  of  this  week  was  principally  employed  in 
helping  to  gather  in  our  harvest,  except  attending  our  monthly 
meeting  on  fifth  day,  and  preparative  meeting  of  Ministers  and 
Elders  on  sixth  day  :  Ijoth  of  which  were  rather  dull,  poor  meet- 
ings. Alas  !  how  the  cares  and  cumbers  of  this  world,  hke 
thorns  and  briars,  choke  the  good  seed  and  prevent  its  bringing 
forth  fruit.  Be  watchftd,  O  my  soul !  that  so  thou  mayest  know 
thy  seed  time  and  harvest  not  to  fail. 

First  day,  the  23d.    My  present  allotnient  is  a  state  of  depres- 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


233 


sion  and  poverty  of  spirit ;  but  considering  myself  deserving  thereof, 
I  do  not  complain.  In  this  condition  I  accompanied  my  family 
to  meeting  as  the  best  thing  I  could  do,  not  feeling  the  least  quali- 
fication to  be  in  any  degree  useful  to  myself  or  to  others  ;  except 
in  a  voluntary  surrender  of  myself  to  be  any  thing  or  nothing,  as 
He,  who  has  a  right  to  dispose  of  his  own  workmanship  at  his 
own  pleasure,  should  see  meet.  But  I  had  not  sat  long  in  this  sub- 
missive state,  before  a  prospect  presented  to  my  mind,  that  opened 
to  a  field  of  labour,  in  which  I  had  to  espouse  the  Master's  cause, 
and  demonstrate  to  the  people  present  the  just  and  indubitable 
right  he  had  to  them  and  all  their  labours,  without  the  promise 
of  any  reward :  and  that  our  true  and  real  felicity,  in  time  and 
in  a  future  state,  solely  depended  on  this  complete  and  willing  sur- 
render of  ourselves  and  all  we  have,  to  his  holy  and  gracious 
will ;  as  nothing  short  thereof  can  produce  our  real  sanctification 
and  adoption. 

Second  and  tliird-days.  Nothing  occm  red  worthy  of  particular 
notice. 

Fourth  day.  Was  our  quarterly  meeting  of  Ministers  and 
Elders,  held  at  Westbury.  1  attended  under  great  depression 
and  poverty  of  spirit,  which  sealed  my  lips,  as  to  any  communi- 
cation, the  greater  part  of  the  meeting.  I  sat  resigned  to  my  lot, 
and  heard  my  friends,  or  some  of  them,  express  their  exercise, 
which  was  principally  directed  to  Ministers  and  Elders,  especially 
in  regard  to  an  honest,  careful  exercise  of  their  gifts  as  such  ;  and 
also  alluding  to  the  dulness  and  want  of  life  that  too  generally 
attended  those  meetings.  I  felt  very  little  effect  wrought  in  the 
meeting  from  their  labour,  and  could  take  no  part  in  it ;  but  as 
I  sat  patiently  waiting,  and  endeavoured  quietly  to  endure  the 
cloud  that  was  spread  as  a  veil  over  the  meeting;  it  clearly 
opened  on  my  mind,  that  it  wa^  not  brought  over  us  in  conse 
quence  of  a  deficiency  in  ministers,  as  it  respects  their  ministerial 
gifts,  nor  fiom  a  want  of  care  in  elders  in  watching  over  them ; 
but  from  a  much  more  deep  and  melancholy  cause,  viz  :  the 
love  and  cares  of  this  world  and  the  dcceitfulness  of  riches  ;  which, 
springing  up  and  gaining  the  ascendency  in  the  mind,  choke 
the  gcxd  seed  like  the  briars  and  thorns,  and  render  it  fruitless ; 

30 


234 


JOURNAL  OF 


and  produce  such  great  dearth  and  barrenness  in  our  meetings. 
As  the  matter  spread  with  a  degree  of  animation  on  my  mind, 
I  found  it  my  place,  near  the  close  of  the  meeting,  to  open  the 
prospect  and  sound  an  alarm  to  Friends,  which  appeared  to  have 
a  quickening  effect  on  many  minds,  and  enabled  us  at  parting, 
to  renew  our  trust  in  the  Almighty  arm  of  divine  sufficiency,  and 
still  to  believe  that  the  Lord  had  not  altogether  forsaken  his  peo- 
ple, but  was  mindful  of  the  seeking  remnant  of  his  heritage,  and 
continued  his  gracious  calls  to  his  backsliding  children. 

Fifth  day.  Was  the  meeting  for  disciphne.  It  was  hkewise 
rather  an  exercising  season,  but  I  hope  attended  with  some  profit. 

Sixth  day.  Was  the  parting  meeting  held  for  public  worship. 
It  was  a  large  crowded  meeting,  but  was  somewhat  hurt  in  the 
forepart,  by  the  appearance  of  one  young  in  the  ministry  stand- 
ing too  long,  and  manifesting  too  much  animation :  yet,  I  believed, 
he  was  under  the  preparing  hand,  fitting  for  service  in  the  Church, 
if  he  only  keeps  low  and  humble,  and  does  not  aspire  above  his 
gift,  into  the  animation  of  the  creature.  For  there  is  great  danger, 
if  such  are  not  deeply  watchful,  of  the  transformer  getting  in  and 
raising  the  mind  into  too  much  creaturely  zeal,  and  warmth  of 
the  animal  spirit,  whereby  they  may  be  deceived,  and  attribute 
that  to  the  divine  power,  which  only  arises  from  a  heated  imagina- 
tion, and  the  natural  warmth  of  their  own  spirits  ;  and  so  mar 
the  work  of  the  divine  spirit  on  their  minds,  run  before  their  gift 
and  lose  it,  or  have  it  taken  away  fi-om  them.  They  thereby  fall 
into  the  condition  of  some  formerly,  as  mentioned  by  the  prophet, 
who,  in  their  creaturely  zeal,  kindle  a  fire  of  their  own,  and  walk 
in  the  light  thereof;  but  these,  in  the  end,  have  to  lie  down  in 
sorrow. 

Towards  the  close  of  the  meeting,  as  Friends  kept  quiet  and 
solid,  way  opened  for  further  communication,  which  brought  a 
comfortable  solemnity  over  the  meeting  ;  and  we  parted  from 
each  other  with  gladdened  hearts,  under  a  grateful  sense  of  the 
Lord's  mercy  to  his  unworthy  creatines. 

Seventh  day.  I  turned  my  hand  again  to  my  usual  industry 
in  my  family  affairs,  with  a  peaceftd  mind. 

First  day,  the  30th.  Devoted  this  day,  as  usual,  to  the  attend- 


ET.IAS  HICKS. 


235 


ance  of  our  own  meeting,  in  which  I  had  not  sat  long,  silently 
musing,  before  my  mind  was  opened  into  a  \ievv  of  the  divine 
attributes,  especially  that  of  God's  unchangeableness,  and  with 
which  I  had  to  contrast  the  changeable  and  unstable  state  of 
man.  I  was  led,  in  the  view  thereof,  to  show  to  the  people,  that 
all  our  infelicity  arose  out  of  our  unsettled  state,  and  for  want  of 
being  established,  or  fixed  on  some  steadfast  and  invariable  prin- 
ciple ;  and  as  there  is  no  other  but  God,  consequently  all  our 
tme  felicity  and  salvation  depends  on  our  being  entirely  settled 
and  fixed  in  and  upon  him,  by  which  we  are  brought  to  witness 
an  unchangeable  state,  having  the  feet  of  the  mind  established 
on  the  immoveable  rock,  Christ,  the  light  of  the  u-orld,  and 
the  real  spiritual  life  of  all  true  believers.  For  nothing  short  of 
this  experience  ought  to  satisfy,  or  give  rest  to  any  seeking,  pant- 
ing soul  after  God  its  redeemer. 

The  rest  of  this  week  I  attended  to  my  family  avocations  with, 
generally,  peace  of  mind,  attending  our  fifth  day  meeting,  as  it 
came  in  course ;  nothing  unusual  occurring,  but  having  daily 
and  continual  cause  of  thankfulness  to  the  bountiful  Author  of 
every  blessing,  both  temporal  and  spiritual. 

First  day,  the  6th  of  8th  month.  My  lot  was  to  suffer  the 
greater  part  of  our  meeting  to-day,  until  near  the  close,  when 
I  found  it  my  place  to  unite  in  a  sliort  testimony  with  a  female 
fellow  labourer,  in  calling  the  attention  of  the  people  to  an  inward 
exercise  and  faitliful  improvement  of  the  gift  or  talent  com- 
mitted to  them,  while  time  and  opportunity  are  afforded,  that  so 
when  called,  they  might  be  prepared  to  render  up  their  accounts 
with  joy. 

Spent  the  remainder  of  this  week  as  usual,  at  and  about 
home,  feeling  no  call  abroad  to  any  religious  service  ;  but  felt  it 
my  incumbent  duty  simply  to  wait,  and  to  watch  at  the  King's 
gate. 

First  day,  the  13th.  Towards  the  close  of  our  meeting,  my 
mind  was  led  to  view  the  great  and  singular  advantages  which 
would  result  to  mankind,  by  a  full  surrender  of  their  wills  to  the 
divine  will,  not  only  in  religious  concerns,  but  also  in  things  of 
a  temporal  nature,  and  indeed  in  every  thing  they  do.    The  sub- 


236 


JOURNAL  OP 


ject  became  veiy  impressive,  insomuch  that  I  found  it  my  place 

to  spread  it  before  the  auditory ;  and  to  set  forth  the  inconsistency 
of  people,  in  first  acknowledging  the  entire  supremacy  of  the, 
divine  Being,  and  their  own  dependant  state,  as  tenants  at  will 
of  the  sovereign  Ijord  of  the  universe ;  and  at  the  same  time 
presumptuously  exercising  an  independent  will  and  judgment  in 
their  temporal,  and,  mostly  so,  even  in  their  religious  concerns. 
Therefore,  Avithout  breach  of  charity,  we  may  safely  conclude, 
that  the  generaUty,  even  of  professed  Christians,  serve  and  wor- 
ship the  creature,  more  than  they  do  the  Creator.  To  this  we 
may  refer  the  source  of  all  the  misery  and  wretchedness  of  man  ; 
and  that  to  rise  out  of  his  fallen  state,  he  must  come  to  know  a 
complete  sinking  down  into  a  state  of  nothingness  of  self,  and  a 
full  surrender  of  his  will  to  the  divine  will,  and  not  to  move  in 
any  thing  without  being  conscientiously  satisfied  it  is  in  corres- 
pondence therewith ;  then  should  we  move  on  safely,  and  peace 
of  mind  would  be  our  dailj^  attendant. 

In  the  course  of  tliis  week  I  was  indisposed,  being  afflicted  with 
much  bodily  pain  ;  but  was  enabled  to  attend  our  monthly  meet 
ing  on  fifth  day,  at  which  we  received  extracts  from  our  yearly 
and  quarterly  meetings,  with  the  printed  epistle  from  London 
They  furnished  suitable  advice  on  several  subjects,  particularly 
relative  to  a  right  attendance  of  our  religious  meetings.  I  was 
impressed  also  with  a  similar  concern,  to  call  the  careful  atten- 
tion of  Friends  thereto,  as  that  upon  which  our  religious  advance- 
ment greatly  depends. 

First  day,  the  20th.  Feeling  a  draft  on  my  mind  to  sit  with 
Friends  of  Bethpage,  I  yielded  thereto.  I  sat  the  meeting  mostly 
in  silence,  it  being  rather  a  dull,  low  time,  and  but  little  life  dis- 
coverable in  the  meeting;  yet  near  the  close,  I  felt  a  small 
motion  leading  to  communication,  and  as  I  gave  way  thereto,  a 
small  stream  of  life  arose,  and  ran  through  the  meeting,  and  we 
parted  under  a  sense  of  its  comforting  influence,  with  thankful 
hearts. 

Fust  day,  the  27th.  My  mind  was  solemnly  exercised  during 
the  greater  part  of  our  meeting,  and  deeply  impressed  with  the 
spirit  of  praj'^er  and  supplication.    Oh,  how  awful  is  the  prospect 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


237 


of  approaching  the  Majesty  of  heaven  in  solemn  prayer  !  How 
it  reduces  the  creatvire,  and  shows  him  his  entire  unvvorthiness 
and  helpless  state^  Well  might  tlie  prophet  thus  exclaim : 
"  When  I  heard,  my  belly  trembled  ;  my  lips  quivered  at  the 
voice ;  rottenness  entered  into  iiriy  bones,  and  I  trembled  in 
myself,  that  I  might  rest  in  the  day  of  trouble."  As  I  sat  under 
the  humbhng  prospect,  I  was  strengthened,  towards  the  close  of 
the  meeting,  with  a  bowed  down  mind  and  bended  knees,  to 
address  my  humble  petition,  on  behalf  of  myself  and  my  friends, 
to  the  tlnone  of  grace,  expressive  of  the  desire  of  my  soul, 
that  we  might  be  kept,  both  old  and  young,  at  all  times,  under 
an  humbling  sense  of  the  divine  fear,  as  that  on  which  all  our 
safety  and  preservation  depends. 

Second  and  third  days.  I  spent  with  a  family  of  my  friends 
some  distance  froni  home,  my  wife  accompanying  me.  I  had 
been  for  some  time  imder  considerable  exercise,  and  concern  on 
account  of  some  uneasiness  and  disunity  which  subsisted  among 
them,  greatly  to  their  hurt.  I  entered  fully  into  the  subject,  and 
was  favoured,  through  patient  perseverance,  to  bring  matters  to  a 
peaceful  close,  for  which  I  was  thankful,  as  the  harmony  of  the 
family  had  been  for  several  years  very  much  interrupted. 

Fourth  day.    We  returned  home. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  meeting  held  this  day,  in  which  I 
was  silent. 

Sixth  day.  I  spent  principally  in  assisting  a  friend,  who  was 
somewhat  straitened  in  getting  along  with  his  husbandry  con- 
cerns ;  he  having  been  indisposed. 

Seventh  day.  Attended  the  fimeral  of  a  very  ancient  woman 
Friend,  an  elder  in  society.  She  lived  to  the  age  of  ninety- 
seven  years,  an  example  of  prudence  and  plainness  ;  of  an  inno- 
cent hfe  and  convei-sation,  and  generally  beloved  by  her  acquain- 
tance. A  large  collection  of  Friends  and  others  attended  it.  I 
was  led  to  set  forth  the  great  advantages  the  true  behever  has 
over  the  unbeliever  ;  and  to  show  to  the  people  the  great  neces- 
sity of  care  that  we  did  not  place  any  confidence  in  a  mere  tradi- 
tional or  historical  belief,  without  coming  to  a  real  experimental 
knowledge  of  God  and  Christ .    It  was  a  solemn  time  ;  many 


238 


JOURNAL  OP 


hearts  were  tendered  with  the  savour  of  truth,  that  spread  over 
the  meeting. 

First  day,  the  3d  of  9th  month.  Feeling  a  small  draft  of  love 
and  concern  to  sit  with  Friends  of  Westbury  meeting  to-day,  I 
yielded  thereto.  It  proved  rather  a  low  dull  season,  very  little  life 
felt  to  be  stirring  in  the  meeting  ;  but  a  little  before  the  close,  I 
felt  my  mind  quickened  wath  the  remembrance  of  the  occurrence 
which  took  place  with  Jesus  and  his  disciples  a  short  time  previous 
to  his  being  taken  prisoner,  and  carried  before  Pilate ;  but,  in  a 
particular  manner,  my  mind  was  impressed  with  the  proceedings 
of  Judas  the  traitor.  It  opened  on  my  mind  that  he  was  a  true 
figure  of  self  in  man,  which  is  the  son  of  perdition,  and  man  of 
sin.  I  was  led,  in  the  opening,  to  warn  Friends  to  beware  of 
him,  each  one  in  themselves,  for  otherwise  he  would  deceive,  and 
betray  them,  as  Judas  did  his  Master ;  and  who  will  as  cer- 
tainly destroy  the  precious  life  in  us,  as  he  brought  Christ  to 
his  crucifixion  ;  his  delight  is  to  scatter  and  expose  to  trial  and 
temptation.  It  spread  with  weight  over  the  meeting,  and  many 
minds  were  solemnly  affected.  Surely  the  Lord's  mercy  is  still 
great  towards  his  backsliding  people,  as  he  continues  striving  to 
gather  and  preserve  them  from  all  evil. 

The  rest  of  the  week  I  spent  as  usual,  nothing  particular 
occurring. 

First  day,  the  10th.  This  day  I  was  pretty  closely  engaged. 
Attended  our  own  meeting  in  the  morning,  and  an  appointed 
meeting  at  Jemsalem  in  the  afternoon.  Both  were  naeetings  of 
favour,  and  comforting  seasons  to  the  upright  in  heart. 

Second  day.  Visited  a  sick  brother.  Found  him  very  ill,  his 
case  being  such  as  to  render  his  recovery  very  doubtful.  It  caused 
much  distress  in  the  family.  Oh !  how  wise  it  is  for  such  dependant 
creatures  as  we  are,  and  whose  stay  here  is  so  uncertain,  to  be 
always  in  a  state  of  readiness  to  meet  every  event.  What  con- 
solation it  affords  in  such  trying  seasons,  when  we  can  come  to 
say,  Lord,  thy  servant  is  ready. 

I  returned  home  on  third  day  evening.  Fourth  and  fifth 
days  employed  as  usual.  On  sixth  day  paid  him  another  visit, 
and  found  him  much  better,  and  the  family  cheerful.    Oh,  how 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


239 


unstable  a  creature  is  man !  full  and  empty,  joyful  and  sorrowful, 
as  things  go  well  or  ill.  All  this  is  for  want  of  having  the  mind 
centered  in  and  on  God,  its  alone  proper  object  and  sure  balance. 

I  tarried  until  first  day,  and  had  an  appointed  meeting  in  the 
neighbourhood ;  and  although  not  so  large  as  I  have  sometimes 
had  in  that  place,  yet  it  was  in  the  main  an  open  favoured  season, 
exciting  thankfulness  to  the  blessed  Author  of  all  our  mercies.  I 
returned  home  that  evening,  leaving  my  brother  in  a  favourable 
way  of  recovery,  witli  a  hope  that  the  visitation  will  be  profitable 
to  him  and  his  family,  if  they  rightly  improve  it. 

The  rest  of  the  week  I  spent  at  and  about  home.  Attended 
our  monthly  meeting  on  fifth  day,  and  the  funeral  of  a  female 
relative  on  sixth  day,  who  was  taken  off  very  suddenly  with  an 
apoplectic  fit.  Such  instances  speak  a  language  to  survivors 
very  urgent  and  expressive  :  "  Be  ye  therefore  ready  also." 

First  day,  the  24th.  After  a  considerable  time  of  silent  waiting 
in  our  meeting,  my  mind  was  quickened  in  the  remembrance  of 
the  following  declaration  of  the  apostle  Paul :  "  For  by  grace  are 
ye  saved,  through  faith ;  and  that  not  of  yourselves :  it  is  the 
gift  of  God :  Not  of  works,  lest  any  man  should  boast."  The 
subject  opened  to  communication,  wherein  I  had  to  unfold 
to  the  people  the  ixtter  incapacity  of  man,  in  his  fallen  or 
natural  state,  doing  any  thing  that  would,  in  the  least  degree, 
further  his  salvation,  or  be  acceptable  to  God,  as  a  part  of  his 
necessary  duty  or  service  to  him.  For  it  would  be  very  unwise 
and  dangerous  to  presume  or  attempt  any  such  thing :  unwise, 
because  it  is  impossible  for  him  to  effect  it,  and  dangerous,  lest  he 
should  do  something  that  might  warm  or  stir  up  his  own  pas- 
sions, or  those  of  others,  in  such  manner  as  to  apprehend  that  a 
degree  of  the  divine  power  attended.  For  this  would  tend  to 
lead  to  a  very  fatal  errour,  a  continuance  in  the  presumption ; 
which  can  produce  no  other,  than  darkness  and  death  to  the 
soul.  In  this  state  he  could  not  possibly  avoid  boasting,  and 
thereby  counteract  the  apostle's  doctrine ;  and  indeed  it  would  be 
justifiable  to  boast,  if  we  could  do  the  least  thing  of  ourselves, 
without  the  immediate  aid  of  divine  grace.  For  strict  justice 
cannot  deny  the  ascription  of  merit  to  any  cause  that  produces  a 


240 


JOURNAL  OP 


real  good  work ;  but  as  no  mere  man  can  possibly  ever  be  such  a 
cause,  so  he  can  never  merit  any  good  from  his  own  works,  and 
therefore  he  never  can  have  a  right  to  boast.  All  this  the  truly 
humble  are  abundantly  sensible  of,  and  therefore  dare  not  attempt 
any  thing  in  a  religious  way,  in  their  own  time  and  will,  but 
wait  patiently  for  the  inniiediate  inspiring  of  divine  grace,  to 
whose  power  only,  as  the  procuring  cause  of  our  salvation,  all 
merit  is  due. 

The  rest  of  the  week  I  spent  in  my  usual  avocations,  not 
omitting  my  religious  duties  as  they  opened  on  my  mind. 

First  day,  the  1st  of  10th  montli.  My  mind,  while  sitting 
in  our  meeting  to-day.  was  led  into  the  consideration  of  the 
real  necessity  there  was  for  each  individual  to  know  God,  be- 
fore he  could  worshi|i  him  acceptably,  in  spirit  and  in  truth. 
For  if  we  are  ignorant  of  liim,  our  worship  would  be  no  better 
than  the  worship  of  the  Athenians  to  an  unknown  God.  The 
subject  enlarged  and  opened  to  the  communication  of  divers 
gospel  truths,  and  gave  cause  gratefully  to  acknoAvlcdge  the 
mercy  and  goodness  of  our  heavenly  Father  to  his  backshding 
children. 

The  six  following  days  I  was  occupied  at  and  about  home, 
with  a  grieved  mind  most  of  the  time,  on  account  of  the  conduct 
of  some  of  my  neighbours,  particularly  one  of  my  tenants,  and 
one  other,  who  spent  tlie  week  principally  attending  horse 
races ;  a  most  pernicious  practice,  leading  to  more  evil  than  almost 
any  other  wicked  custom  that  the  loose  and  the  vain  aie  so 
foolishly  addicted  to ;  for  it  is  not  only  spending  our  precious 
time  in  a  vain  and  wanton  manner,  but  likewise  manifests  great 
ingratitude  to  the  Author  of  all  oiu'  blessings,  if  not  a  total  disbe- 
lief in  him :  for  how  (  an  it  be  supposed  tbat  a  mtional  mind,  that 
has  a  real  belief  in  (tocI,  could  have  hardiness  enough  to  drive  a 
horse  in  a  race,  to  gratify  a  number  of  idle  and  vain  spectators  ; 
and  if  for  a  Ijrilie  or  a  wager,  it  adds  greatly  to  the  sin,  as  it  is 
then  accompanied  with  covetousness  and  dishonesty.  When  we 
consider  that  the  horse  is  one  of  the  great  temporal  blessings 
conferred  on  man, by  a  gracious  and  beneficent  providence,  to  abuse 
hun  without  cause,  by  driving  him  in  a  race,  is  both  cruel  and 


ELI  AS  HICKS. 


241 


wicked ;  for  his  life,  and  the  hfe  of  his  rider  are  both  at  stake,  as 
it  sometimes  happens  that  both  are  killed.  And  not  one  single 
real  good  ever  has  arisen,  or  ever  can  be  looked  for,  from  it :  for 
the  truth  of  which,  I  dare  ajspeal  to  any  rational  man  who  was 
ever  in  the  practice,  that  it  has  never  produced  one  hour  of  real 
peace  to  the  mind. 

First  day,  the  8th.  As  I  sat  in  our  meeting,  the  declaration 
of  Paul,  introductory  to  his  epistle  to  the  Hebrews,  presented  to 
my  mind,  and  opened  to  a  very  interesting  communication, 
showing  that  "  God,  who  at  sundry  tim.ee  and  in  divers  manners, 
spake  in  time  past  unto  the  fathers  [in  Israel]  by  the  prophets, 
hath  in  these  last  days  spoken  unto  us  by  liis  Son,  whom  he 
hath  appointed  heir  of  all  things."  This  renders  it  necessary  for 
every  true  follower  of  him,  to  hear  him  in  all  things,  as  now, 
under  the  gospel  dispensation,  we  have  no  other  sufficient  teacher 
but  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  by  his  spirit  in  our  hearts ;  therefore, 
they  who  do  not  hear  and  obey  him,  cannot  be  saved,  but,  agree- 
ably to  the  testimony  of  Moses,  "the  Avrath  of  God  abideth  on 
them." 

Second  and  third  days.  Were  taken  up  in  attending  our 
meeting  for  sufferings.  The  rest  of  the  week  I  was  occupied  in 
my  temporal  concerns,  except  attending  our  preparative  meeting 
on  fifth  day. 

First  day,  the  15th.  Although  in  going  to  meeting  to-day  my 
mind  was  under  the  impression  of  poverty  and  spiritual  want, 
yet  I  had  not  sat  long,  ere  light  sprang  up,  and  opened  to  the 
communication  of  divers  weighty  gospel  truths.  In  the  unfolding 
of  tliese,  I  was  led  to  open  to  the  people,  that  every  birth  was 
clothed  in  its  own  proper  nature,  and  which  must  be  congenial 
to  the  spring  or  source  from  whence  the  birth  derived  its  exist- 
ence. Hence,  agreeal  »ly  to  the  apostle  Paul's  declaration,  "  The 
first  man  is  of  the  earth,  earthy  ;  the  second  man  is  the  Lord 
from  heaven ;  and  as  we  have  borne  the  image  of  the  earthy, 
we  shall  also  1)ear  the  image  of  the  heavenly."  Therefore,  as 
the  earthy  or  animal  part  in  man,  must  draw  all  its  succour  and 
support  from  the  earth,  and  cannot  be  comforted  nor  subsist 
without  earthly  food ;  so  neither  can  the  spiritual  part,  or  the 

31 


242 


JOURNAI,  OF 


immortal  soul  of  man,  be  comforted  or  subsist  in  its  true  life, 
without  spiritual  food. 

This,  and  much  more,  I  was  led  to  open  in  the  light  of  truth, 
at  this  solemn  time ;  for  the  Lord's  power  spread  over  the  meeting 
in  a  very  weighty  and  sensible  manner,  and  we  parted  under 
the  precious  covering.  Oh  that  our  hearts  might  be  continually 
warmed  with  gratitude  for  such  unmerited  mercy  ! 

Fifth  day.  Since  first  day,  I  have  been  busily  employed  in 
putting  my  family  affairs  in  order,  so  as  to  leave  home  in  company 
with  a  committee  appointed  by  the  yearly  meeting,  to  visit  the 
quarterly  meeting  of  Nine  Partners,  with  the  monthly  meetings 
constituting  it,  this  being  the  time  to  set  out.  I  also  attended  the 
funeral  of  a  deceased  neighbour,  on  fointh  day,  where  I  had  a 
favourable  opportunity  of  expostulating  with  a  large  assembly,  on 
the  fallen,  weak,  and  helpless  state  of  man,  and  the  necessity  of 
his  witnessing,  through  the  aid  of  divine  grace  or  spirit  of  his 
^  Creator,  a  redemption  therefrom,  as  the  only  means  whereby  he 
can  be  saved,  and  l)e  again  renewed  into  his  divine  image  and 
become  a  partaker  of  his  real  nature,  as  no  other  nature  can  be 
happy  in  the  enjoyment  of  him. 

I  accordingly  left  home  on  sixth  day,  the  20th  of  K)th  month. 
My  wife  and  daughter  Elizabeth  set  out  with  me,  with  a  view 
of  bearing  me  company  in  part  of  the  visit.  We  rode  through 
New- York  to  Westchester,  and  lodged  with  our  kind  friends 
Thomas  and  Elizabeth  Underbill,  in  our  way  to  West  Hartford, 
in  Connecticut,  that  being  the  first  monthly  meeting  we  were  to 
attend,  in  the  arrangement  made  by  the  committee.  On  seventh 
day  we  continued  oin*  journey  to  Middlesex,  and  lodged  with  our 
friends  Samuel  and  Phebe  Bishop.  On  first  day  attended  Friends' 
meeting  there ;  and  some  notice  being  given  to  the  neighbouring 
inhabitants,  of  our  intention  of  attending  it,  the  meeting  was 
large,  and  through  the  condescending  goodness  of  the  Shepherd 
of  Israel,  it  proved  a  comfortable  edifying  season.  The  doctrines 
of  the  gospel  were  freely  and  largely  communicated,  and  the 
truth  raised  into  dominion  above  all,  to  the  glory  of  him  who  is 
over  all,  God  blessed  for  ever.  On  second  day  we  proceeded  on 
our  journey,  going  by  Avay  of  Bridgeport,  in  order  to  visit  a 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


female  Friend  of  our  acquaintance  who  lived  in  that  town,  far 
separated  from  her  friends  and  relatives ;  and  whose  husband 
being  a  seafaring  man,  was  from  home  on  a  voyage.  She  was 
comforted,  and  glad  of  the  visit,  although  short.  After  dining 
with  her,  and  staying  as  long  as  our  time  would  admit,  we  pro- 
ceeded that  afternoon  to  Woodbury,  and  lodged  with  Elijah 
Sherman,  a  person  of  the  Methodist  persuasion,  and  an  old 
acquaintance,  where  we  were  hospitably  entertained.  The  next 
day  we  rode  to  West  Hartford,  and  put  up  with  our  kind  Friend 
Ruth  Gilbert,  widow  of  Charles  Gilbert.  Fourth  day,  being  the 
day  their  usual  meeting  was  held,  we  attended  it;  and  although 
small,  was  nevertheless  a  precious  favoured  season.  The  states 
of  those  present  were  spoken  to  in  tha  fresh  Sowings  of  gospel 
love,  tendering  and  contriting  the  hearts  of  most  present.  Surely 
it  was  the  Lord's  doing,  and  worthy  of  deep  thankfulness  to  him, 
as  the  alone  author  of  every  blessing. 

Fifth  day.  Was  their  monthly  meeting,  held  at  this  time 
out  of  its  usual  course  to  accommodate  the  yearly  meeting's  com- 
mittee. It  proved  a  satisfactory  season.  The  few  Friends  con- 
stituting it,  appeared  to  conduct  the  business  which  came  before 
them,  in  a  good  degree  of  propriety  and  harmony. 

On  sixth  day  we  took  leave  of  our  fiiends  there,  and  rode  to 
Oblong;  a  long  journey  of  about  fifty-five  miles,  and  the  way 
rough  and  hilly.  We  lodged  with  our  friend  Azariah  Howland, 
and  the  next  day  attended  Oblong  jnoruhly  meeting,  which 
proved,  through  heavenly  help,  particularly  the  part  for  worship,  a 
comfortable  edifying  meeting.  Near  the  close,  feeling  a  draft  on 
my  mind  to  be  there  the  next  day  at  their  first  day  meeting,  I 
informed  Friends  thereof  before  we  parted  ;  and  notice  being 
given  to  the  neighbouring  people  of  my  intention,  the  meeting 
was  large;  and  through  the  unmerited  condescension  of  our  gra- 
cious Helper,  ability  was  given  to  preach  the  gospel  in  the  clear 
demorxstration  of  the  spirit,  and  with  power.  The  spirits  of  most 
present  were  humified  and  contrited,  and  the  truth  raised  into 
dominion,  to  the  praise  of  Him,  who  calleth  us  to  glory  and 
virtue. 


244 


JOURNAL  OF 


After  this  favoured  meeting,  we  pailed  with  our  friends,  under 
a  hvely  sense  of  the  Lord's  goodness,  and  rode  that  evening  to 
Nine  Partners  and  took  quarters  with  our  kmd  relations  Isaac 
and  Anne  Thome. 

The  two  following  days  we  attended  the  monthly  meetings 
of  Nine  Partners  and  Oswego,  which  were,  in  the  main,  solenm 
edifying  seasons. 

On  fourth  day  we  rnde  to  Cornwall,  leaving  my  wife  and 
daughter  with  our  relations  at  Nine  Partners.  The  three  follow- 
ing days,  attended  the  monthly  meetings  of  Cornwall,  Marlbo- 
rough, and  Rosendale  Plains.  With  grateful  hearts,  Ave  had 
abundant  cause  to  acknowledge  the  goodness,  and  never-faiUng 
loving  kindness  of  our  heavenly  Father,  in  condescending  to  be 
with  us  fronr  day  to  day,  making  bare  his  arm  for  our  help  and 
furnishing  with  ability  for  the  work  we  were  engaged  in,  both 
in  meetings  for  worship,  and  those  for  the  right  ordering  of  the 
affairs  of  the  Church.  The  several  opportunities  were  crowned 
with  His  gracious  presence,  solemnizing  and  tendering  the  hearts 
of  the  people,  and  comforting  and  gladdening  the  sincere  in  heart, 
who  prefer  the  prosperit)^  of  Zion  to  their  chiefest  joy. 

First  day.  We  attended  Marlborough  meeting;  and  some 
notice  having  been  given  to  those  of  other  societies,  of  oiu'  intention 
of  being  there,  the  meeting  was  large,  and  tlie  house  much  crowd- 
ed. Through  divine  favour  extended  to  us,  it  proved  an  awakening 
precious  season  ;  the  testimony  to  the  power  of  truth  went  forth 
and  reigned  victoriously  over  all.  We  tarried  here  until  the  next 
day,  and  then  returned  to  Nine  Partners,  in  order  to  attend  the 
quarterly  meeting,  which  opened  the  next  day  with  a  meeting  for 
Ministers  and  Elders.  Here  I  again  met  my  wife  and  daughter. 
The  quarterly  meeting  closed  on  fourth  day  afternoon,  and  was 
in  the  main  an  instructive  favoured  season,  although  considera- 
bly inten  upted  by  the  imprudence  of  a  Friend,  in  his  unwarrant- 
able opposition  to  a  concern,  which  was  opened  to  draw  Friends 
off  from  the  too  free  and  lumecessar}^  use  of  ai  ticles,  which 
were  the  produce  of  the  laliour  of  the  jjoor  enslaved  black  people ; 
and  which  was  wrung  from  them,  while  in  a  state  of  cruel  bond- 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


245 


age,  by  their  hard-hearted  task  masters.  For  the  suffermgs  of 
those  oppressed  people,  niy  mind  was  deeply  exercised. 

Fifth  day.  Rode  to  Stanford,  and  attended  the  quarterly  meet- 
ing of  Ministers  and  Elders,  which  through  condescending  good- 
ness proved  a  comfortable  edifying  opportunity,  as  was  that  for 
discipline.  The  following  day  the  quarterly  meeting  closed,  with 
a  meeting  for  worship  on  seventh  day.  It  was  a  season  thank- 
fully to  be  remembered  by  every  sensible  mind  present  ;  for  he 
that  opens  and  lione  can  shut,  and  shuts  and  none  can  open, 
was  graciously  near,  and  condescended  to  open  many  deep 
doctrines  of  tiie  gospel,  in  a  full  and  clear  maimer,  in  the  demon- 
stiation  of  the  spirit,  attended  with  power  ;  humbling  and  solem- 
nizing the  minds  of  most  present,  and  exalting  the  truth,  which 
was  raised  into  dominion,  and  ran  sweetly  over  all. 

We  returned  that  evening  to  Nine  Partners,  intending  to  sit 
with  Friends  there  the  next  day  ;  and  some  public  notice  being 
given  that  we  were  there,  the  meeting  was  large.  Although  it 
proved  rather  an  exercising  season,  and  the  labour  hard,  yet,  I 
trust,  it  was  a  season  of  profit  and  instruction  to  many. 

After  this  meeting,  feeling  myself  released  from  any  further 
service,  the  committee  having  fulfilled  their  appointment,  and 
my  wife  fieeling  anxious  to  return  home,  we  took  leave  of  our 
friends  on  second  day  afternoon  and  rode  to  our  friend  Enoch 
Dorland's  at  Beckinan.  The  next  day  wo  rode  to  Croton,  and 
lodged  with  our  friend  James  Jordan.  On  fourth  day  we  pro- 
ceeded on  our  journey  to  Manhattauville,  and  lodged  with  our 
friend  Joseph  Byrd  ;  and  the  following  day,  attended  the  little 
meeting  of  our  friends  at  that  place.  After  this  we  rode  down  to 
New- York,  and  took  uj)  our  ([uarters  at  the  house  of  our  friend 
and  kinsman  Whitehead  Hicks.  We  tarried  in  town  until 
.seventh  day  morning,  and  then  took  leave  of  our  friends  and 
rode  home,  where  we  arrived  just  before  evening. 

We  were  from  home  about  four  weeks,  in  which  time  I  travel- 
led four  hundred  and  eighty-four  miles,  and  attended  two  quar- 
terly meetings  which  held  five  days;  seven  monthly  meetings, 
and  five  particular  meetings.  We  had  especial  cause  of  gratitude 
and  thankfulness  of  heart,  to  the  great  and  beneficent  Author  of 


246 


JOURNAL  OF 


every  blessing,  ui  that  our  journey  was  prosperous,  and  ourselves 
preserved  in  a  comfortable  degree  of  bodily  health  during  the 
time,  although  a  season  of  very  general  indisposition  with  those 
among  whom  we  travelled. 

First  day,  the  19th  of  11th  month.  I  sat  with  our  friends 
again  in  our  own  meeting,  and  found  it  my  place  to  set  them  an 
example  of  silence,  feeUng  my  situation  like  Mordecai's  when 
sitting  at  the  king's  gate :  a  state  as  grateful  to  an  humble  mind 
as  riding  the  king's  horse,  and  more  safe,  as  there  is  less  danger 
of  falling. 

Fifth  day.    Another  silent  meeting. 

Seventh  day.  Attended  the  funeral  of  a  deceased  neighbour. 
My  mind  was  largely  opened,  to  set  forth  to  a  large  auditory 
assembled  on  this  solemn  occasion,  the  great  and  blessed  effects 
of  a  firm  behef  and  faith  in  the  living  God  ;  as  it  has  proved  an 
antidote  to  all  evil  in  every  age  of  the  world,  and  to  every  indi- 
vidual who  has  had  this  true  a  ad  living  faith.  For  it  is  that  by 
which  the  just  live,  and  this  the  apostle  saith,  is  our  victory,  even 
our  faith  ;  and  without  it,  it  is  impossible  to  please  God.  The 
Lord's  power  accompanied  the  communication,  and  many  hearts 
were  broken  and  contrited  by  its  heavenly  influence ;  may  it  not 
pass  away  as  the  morning  dew,  but  fasten  as  a  nail  in  a  sure 
place,  driven  by  the  Master  of  our  assemblies,  is  the  fervent  desire 
and  prayer  of  my  mind. 

First  day,  the  26th.  I  passed  our  meeting  to-day  mostly  in 
silence,  except  just  before  the  close,  I  found  it  my  place  to  remind 
the  meeting  of  the  complaint  of  the  apostle  Paul  in  his  epistle  to 
his  beloved  Timothy,  concerning  some  in  that  day,  who  were 
ever  learning,  and  never  able  to  come  to  the  knowledge  of  the 
truth.  The  occasion  of  this  was,  as  it  opened  on  my  mind,  their 
neglect  of  practical  duty,  and  unfaithfulness  in  what  they  styled 
httle  things ;  and  thereby  rendered  themselves  unfit  and  unworthy 
of  being  made  rulers  over  more  ;  and  yet  were  continually  seek- 
ing after  knowledge  in  greater  things,  through  the  medium  of 
the  outward  ear,  and  creaturely  comprehension  ;  loving  to  hear 
the  truth  declared  and  doctrines  communicated,  but  unwilling 
and  neglectful  of  putting  them  in  practice  ;  and  therefore  made 


KLIAS  HICKS. 


247 


no  advancement  in  true  learning.  I  had  to  warn  my  friends  to  be 
careful  not  to  render  themselves  liable  to  the  same  reprehension, 
and  found  sweet  peace  in  this  small  portion  of  duty. 

The  rest  of  the  week  I  spent  about  home,  being  somewhat 
indisposed.  Sat  our  fifth  day  meeting  in  silence,  quietly  waiting, 
as  at  the  king's  gate,  for  renewed  instruction. 

First  day,  the  3d  of  12th  month.  My  mind  has  been  much 
shut  up  since  I  returned  home.  Sat  our  meeting  again  to-day 
in  silence ;  but  felt  a  daily  exercise  and  concern  relative  to  a 
religious  visit  in  New  England,  which  has  for  months  past,  been 
ripening  on  my  mind  ;  but  have  a  prospect  of  some  services  about 
home,  ere  I  engage  therein.  Lay  low,  oh  my  soul  !  that  thou 
mayest  be  rightly  and  ^\^sely  directed  therein ;  for  thou  well 
knowest  the  greatness,  and  vast  importance  of  the  work  thou  art 
called  to  ;  and  that  of  thyself,  thou  art  utterly  destitute  of  any 
right  ability  to  perform  it  to  thy  own  good,  or  to  the  glory  and 
honour  of  thy  chiefest  good,  who  is  the  Lord  alone,  thy  gracious 
and  all-sufficient  helper. 

Second  and  third  days.  Attended  to  some  necessary  concerns 
about  home,  preparatory  to  the  approaching  winter.  On  fourth 
day  afternoon  rode  to  Flushing,  in  order  to  attend  the  monthly 
meeting  the  following  day,  with  a  further  prospect  of  having 
two  other  meetings  on  sixth  and  seventh  days,  one  at  Newtown, 
and  the  other  at  the  Kilns,  in  my  way  to  New- York,  where  I  felt 
drawings  on  my  mind  to  be  on  first  day.  Accordingly  after  at- 
tending the  monthly  meeting,  having  the  company  of  my  kind 
kinsman  Isaac  Hicks  from  Westbury,  with  the  assistance  of  some 
Friends  of  Flushing,  we  procured  the  ap|X)intment  of  a  meeting 
the  next  evening  at  Newtown  at  the  sixth  hour,  principally  for 
those  not  in  membership  with  us.  As  there  were  no  Friends 
residing  in  the  village,  the  )neeting  was  held  in  a  large  upper 
room  at  an  inn,  which  was  nearly  filled  with  sober  and  orderly 
behaved  people.  Through  heavenly  help,  it  proved  a  comfortable 
edifying  season ;  the  doctrines  of  the  gospel  were  freely  and  Lrgely 
opened,  apparently  to  the  general  satisfaction  of  those  present, 
and  many  hearts  were  humbled  and  contrited. 

The  next  day  we  attended  an  appointed  meeting  in  Friends' 


248 


JOURNAL  OF 


meeting-house  at  the  Kilns.  Althoiioli  not  large,  yet  it  proved 
a  precious  tendering  opportunity  to  most  present,  worthy  to  be 
remembered  with  thankfulness  and  gratitude  to  the  blessed  Author 
of  all  our  multiplied  favours  and  blessings.  After  this  we  dined 
with  our  kind  friend  Jane  Betts,  and  then  proceeded  to  the  city. 

First  day.  We  attended  Pearl-street  meeting  in  the  morning, 
and  that  at  Liberty-street  in  the  afternoon.  In  the  form€r,  the 
testimony  of  truth  went  forth  with  power,  and  its  dignity  and 
excellency  were  exalted  over  all  opposition,  to  the  praise  of  Him 
who  is  calling  and  leading  all  his  devoted  and  obedient  children 
out  of  darkness  into  his  marvellous  light,  wherein  they  are 
brought  to  witness  a  fidl  remission  of  their  sins,  and  an  inherit- 
ance among  all  those  that  are  sanctified.  The  latter  meeting  I 
sat  mostly  in  silence ;  but  towards  the  close,  I  was  led  forth  in  a 
short  searching  testimony,  which  brought  a  solemnity  over  the 
meeting,  under  which  covering  the  meeting  closed. 

Second  day.  I  attended  a  committee  of  the  meeting  for  suf- 
feruigs,  and  in  the  afternoon  a  funeral  of  one  not  a  member,  but 
whose  parents  were  incHned  to  Friends,  and  frequently  attended 
Friends'  meetings.  They  hearing  of  my  being  in  town,  requested 
my  attendance  at  the  funeral ;  and  being  disposed  thereto,  I 
attended  accordingly,  and  had  an  open  time  to  declare  the  truth 
to  those  present,  suited  to  the  occasion,  and  many  minds  were 
humbled. 

Third  day.  I  attended  the  meeting  for  sufiTerings,  and  on 
fourth  day  the  meeting  held  in  the  middle  of  the  week  at  Pearl- 
street,  at  which  there  was  a  marriage  ;  which  occasioned  the 
meeting  to  be  quite  large,  and  in  which  my  mind  was  exercised 
in  an  unusual  manner.  For  the  subject  which  first  piesented, 
after  my  mind  had  become  silenced,  was  the  remembrance  of  the 
manner  in  which  the  temporal  coui  ts  among  men  are  called  to 
order  ;  and  it  became  so  impressive,  as  to  apprehend  it  right 
to  make  use  of  it  as  a  simile,  much  in  the  way  the  prophet 
was  Jid  to  make  use  of  some  of  the  Rechabites,  to  convict  Israel 
of  their  disobedience  and  want  of  attention  to  their  law  and 
law-giver.  I  accordingly  Avas  led  to  cry  audibly  three  times, 
"  O  yes,  O  yes,  O  yes;  silence  all  persons,  under  the  pain  and 


EJLIAS  tllCKS. 


249 


penalty  of  the  displeasure  of  the  court."  This  unusual  address 
had  a  powerful  tendency  to  arrest  the  attention  of  all  present, 
and  from  which  I  took  occasion,  as  truth  opened  the  way,  to  rea- 
son with  the  assembly,  that  if  such  a  confused  mass  of  people  as 
are  generally  collected  together  on  such  occasions,  and  from  very 
different  motives,  and  many  from  mere  curiosity  to  hear  and  see 
the  transactions  of  the  court,  should  all  in  an  instant  so  honour 
and  respect  the  court,  as  immediately  to  be  still  and  silent  at  the 
simple  call  of  the  crier :  how  much  more  reasonable  is  it,  for  a 
collection  of  people,  promiscuously  gathered  to  the  place  appointed 
in  a  religious  way,  to  wait  upon,  and  worship  the  Judge  of  heaven 
and  earth,  to  l)e  still,  and  strive  to  silence  every  selfish  and  crea- 
turely  thought  and  cogitation  of  the  mind.  For  such  thoughts 
and  cogitations  would  as  certainly  prevent  our  hearing  the  in- 
ward divine  voice  of  the  King  of  heaven,  and  as  effectually  hin- 
der our  worshipping  him  in  spirit  and  in  truth,  as  the  talking 
of  the  multitude  at  a  court  of  moral  law,  w^ould  interrupt  the 
business  thereof  As  I  proceeded  with  this  simile,  the  subject 
enlarged  and  spread,  accompanied  with  gospel  power  and  the 
evident  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  whereby  truth  was  raised  into 
victory,  and  ran  as  oil  over  all.  The  meeting  closed  with  solemn 
supplication  and  thanksgiving  to  the  Lord  our  gracious  Helper, 
to  whom  all  the  honour  and  glory  belong,  both  now  and  for  ever. 

We  left  the  city  that  afternoon,  under  a  grateful  sense  of  the 
Lord's  goodness,  and  rode  to  Flushing,  where  we  had  a  large 
public  meeting  that  evening,  mostly  of  those  not  in  membership 
with  us.  It  was  a  solemn  season,  instructive  and  edifying.  I 
retimied  home  the  next  day,  and  found  my  family  in  a  reason- 
able state  of  health  ;  surely  may  I  not,  with  [)ropriety  and  humility 
of  heart,  exclaim  with  one  formerly  :  "  What  shall  I  render  unto 
the  Lord  for  all  his  benefits  towards  mc  Are  not  his  mercies 
new  everj'  morning  'I  his  faithfulness  faileth  not. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  I  was  industriously  occupied  in  my 
family  affairs,  and  the  week  ended  with  peace  of  mind. 

First  day,  the  17th.  I  was  led  in  our  meeting  to-day,  to  caU 
Friends'  attention  to  the  cross  ;  assuring  them,  that  if  we  lived 
without  the  cross,  we  must  expect  to  die  without  the  crown.  For 

32 


250 


JOURNAL  OF 


as  the  cross  consisted  only  in  doing  right,  and  doing  right  only  in 
a  conformity  to  the  will  of  our  heavenly  Father,  and  doing  all 
our  works  agreeable  to  his  good  pleasure  and  not  our  own, 
therefore,  doing  right  is  always  a  cross  to  our  fallen  nature,  as 
nothing  can  do  right  in  the  sight  of  God,  but  a  birth  or  child  of 
God.  For  although  a  man  in  his  fallen  state  may  do  a  moral 
act,  that  in  itself  is  a  right  work,  yet,  doing  it  for  his  own  plea- 
sure and  will,  and  not  because  it  is  agieeable  to  the  will  and 
pleasure  of  his  Creator,  it  cannot  be  accepted  as  a  good  act, 
because  the  motive  and  principle  were  evil,  being  selfish  and 
not  of  God. 

Second  day.   Busily  employed  about  home  and  in  home  affairs. 

Third  day.  Visited  a  sick  friend  at  his  request.  Assisted  him 
in  settling  his  business  and  wrote  his  will.  Surely  this  is  a  work 
which  requires  sound  judgment  and  discretion,  therefore  ought 
always  to  be  done  in  time  of  health,  with  proper  deliberation,  and 
not  in  haste. 

Fourth  day.  Attended  Westbury  monthly  meeting,  to  my 
own,  and  I  trust,  my  friends  comfort  and  satisfaction.  I  believe 
it  was  a  season  of  instruction  and  profit  to  many  who  were  pre- 
sent ;  may  it  fasten  as  a  nail  in  a  sure  place. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  own  monthly  meeting.  The  meet- 
ing for  worship,  through  close  labour,  proved  a  quickening  ten- 
dering season  to  many  present.  In  the  meeting  for  discipline,  I 
found  it  my  duty  to  spread  before  my  Friends,  a  concern  which 
had  for  many  months  been,  at  times,  very  impressive  on  my  mind, 
to  pay  a  visit  in  gospel  love,  to  Friends  and  others  in  some  parts 
of  the  yearly  meeting  of  Rhode  Island.  After  due  deliberation 
thereon,  they  united  with  it  and  gave  me  their  certificate,  leaving 
me.  at  liberty  to  pursue  the  prospect,  as  truth  might  open  the 
way.  This  brought  me  under  serious  reflectiozis,  in  a  view  and 
consideration  of  the  great  responsibiUty  wliich  naturally  attaches 
to  those  who  thus  go  out  on  this  solemn  embassy,  with  the  con- 
currence of  their  Friends.  For  not  only  their  own  reputation  as 
ministers  of  the  gospel,  must  rise  or  fall,  according  to  their  good 
or  iU  conduct,  but  likewise  that  of  their  Friends,  and  the  society 
they  profess  to  be  ministers  of;  and  also,  the  truth  which  they 


ELTAS  HICKS. 


251 


seem  to  espouse,  instead  of  being  advanced,  may  be  retarded 
thereby.  Lay  proslrate,  O  my  soul,  at  the  throne  of  grace,  and 
seek  that  wisdom  which  is  only  profitable  to  direct,  that  thou 
mayest  be  thereby  strengthened  to  endure  hardness,  as  a  good 
soldier  and  servant  of  the  Prince  of  Peace. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Busily  employed  in  so  arranging 
matters  at  home,  as  to  leave  it  with  a  peaceful  mind. 

First  day,  the  24th.  A  profitable  edifying  meeting  with  my 
Friends  at  home.  I  was  led  to  sound  forth  a  gospel  message 
among  them,  in  an  arousing  searching  testimony,  by  which  many 
minds  were  humbled  and  contritcd. 

Second  and  third  days.  Employed  in  making  preparation  for 
my  proposed  journey. 

Fourth  day.  Attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Westbuiy,  at 
which  there  were  two  marriages  accomplished  ;  which  occasioned 
the  meeting  to  be  very  large.  Many  of  other  societies  came  out 
of  curiosity  to  see  the  manner  of  our  marriages,  amongst  whom, 
I  was  largely  opened  in  communication,  to  set  forth  many  gospel 
truths  necessary  to  be  believed  and  witnessed  in  our  own  expe- 
rience, in  order  to  our  salvation.  It  was  a  season  of  favour,  and 
a  very  solemn  time ;  may  it  be  blessed  and  sanctified  to  the 
lasting  benefit  of  all  who  were  present,  is  the  fervent  desire  and 
travail  of  my  spirit. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  meeting  in  silence.  The  two  fol- 
lowing days  busily  engaged  in  arranging  my  temporal  concerns, 
and  putting  them  in  order,  that  I  may  leave  home  with  a  peace- 
ful mind. 

First  day,  the  31st.  A  solemn  meeting  to-day,  in  which  my 
mind  was  led  forth  in  humble  supplication  for  support  and  pre- 
servation in  my  proposed  journey ;  and  that  the  Lord  our  gracious 
helper,  in  his  guardian  care,  would  be  pleased  to  be  near  my 
dear  family  and  friends  at  home,  and  be  their  comfort  anfi 
strength  in  every  needful  time  ;  and  that  all  those  who  sit  in 
darkness  and  the  shadow  of  death,  might  be  redeemed  there- 
from, and  translated  into  the  kingdom  of  God,  that  so  his  truth 
might  prosper  and  spread  from  sea  to  sea,  and  from  the  rivers 
to  the  ends  of  the  earth ;   that  his  great  and  excellent  name 


252 


JOURNAL  OP 


might  be  praised  and  magnified  by  all  the  nations  of  the  earth, 
fiom  the  rising  of  the  sun,  to  the  going  down  thereof,  world 
without  end.  Amen. 

Second  and  third  days.  Still  busily  engaged  preparatory  to 
leaving  home,  with  a  prospect  of  setting  out  on  fourth  day  morn- 
ing, if  way  should  open. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


253 


CHAPTER  XI. 

General  visit  to  Friends  in  New  England,  1816. 

Fourth  day,  the  3d  of  1st  month,  1816.  After  taking  a 
solemn  and  affecting  opportunity  witli  my  dear  wife  and  children, 
I  took  leave  of  them  under  a  sense  of  the  Lord's  goodness  and 
gracious  regard,  and  proceeded  on  my  intended  journey.  Called 
on  my  kind  kinsman  Isa'ac  Hicks,  of  Westbury,  who  had  pre- 
viously concluded  to  go  with  me  as  a  companion.  We  proceeded 
that  afternoon  to  New- York,  where  we  tarried  over  the  next 
day.  On  sixth  day  morning  we  left  the  city,  and  arrived  at 
Bridgeport,  in  Connecticut,  on  seventh  day  evening,  where  we 
had  a  small  though  comfortable  meeting,  the  next  day,  at  the  house 
of  Thomas  Woodward,  whose  wife  was  a  member  of  our  society. 
After  this  we  proceeded  to  New  Haven,  and  lodged.  On  second 
day  we  rode  to  Hartford,  and  lodged. 

On  third  and  fourth  days,  rode  to  Leicester,  and  lodged  with 
our  friend  Pliny  Earle.  On  fifth  day  had  an  appointed  meeting 
there,  at  the  eleventh  hour.  A  number  of  the  neighbouring 
people,  not  of  our  society,  attended  with  Friends,  among  whom 
was  their  priest.  It  was,  I  think,  a  season  of  favour,  in 
which  my  heart  and  mouth  were  opened,  under,  I  trust,  the 
influence  of  gospel  love,  to  declare  the  way  of  life  and  salvation 
to  the  people ;  proving  from  the  scriptures,  and  clear  rational 
demonstration,  that  nothing  short  of  the  inspiring  spirit  of  truth, 
could  enable  any  rational  creature  to  make  the  least  progress  in 
a  real  Christian  life,  or  qualify  to  worship  tire  Father  of  spirits, 
in  spirit  and  in  truth ;  and  that  a  confession  to  all,  or  any  creeds 
or  forms  of  religion,  however  specious  in  their  appearance,  without 
the  immediate  aid  of  this  inspiring  spirit,  would,  in  the  end,  leave 


254 


JOURNAL  OF 


the  soul  in  utter  disappointment.  I  was  also  led  to  show  the 
xinreasonablcness  and  inconsistency  of  the  doctrine  of  uncon- 
ditional election  and  reprobation,  and  that  it  was  impossible  to 
be  drawn  from  a  right  and  enlightened-- view  of  the  divine 
character. 

There  occurred  one  circumstance  in  the  meeting,  which,  as  it 
was  in  itself  improper,  and  gave  some  intermption  to  my  mind, 
I  am  willing  to  mention  as  a  caution.  "When  the  meeting  had 
got  pretty  quietly  settled,  and  my  luind  opened  with  a  prospect 
to  stand  up,  just  before  1  was  about  to  rise,  there  came  in  a 
stranger,  in  appearance  ;  and  a  Friend  who  sat  near  me  spoke  to 
him  to  come  forward,  and  called  him  panson,  meaning  a  priest, 
which  I  was  very  sorry  to  be  informed  of :  for  I  think  that 
Friends  ought  to  be  exceedingly  careful,  never  to  inform  travel- 
ling ministers  the  state  or  condition  of  those  who  attend  their 
meetings,  as  it  not  only  has  a  tendency -to  close  up  the  way  very 
much,  of  real  gospel  ministers,  but  when  close  and  plain  things 
are  dehvered,  they  often  are  judged  of  ha\'ing  outward  information 
of  the  condition  of  those  to  whom  it  apphes  ;  which,  if  it  be  the 
case,  it  would  most  likely  be  the  means  of  rendering  their  labour 
useless ;  but  if  from  inquiry  such  find  that  the  speaker  was  utterly 
ignorant  of  them,  from  any  outward  discovery,  it  is  then  much 
more  likely  to  fix  on  their  minds  and  become  useful. 

After  dining  with  our  friends,  we  proceeded  on  our  journey 
about  thirteen  miles  tliat  evening,  with  a  ^^ew  of  endeavouring  to 
get  an  opportunity  with  Friends  at  Bolton,  the  next  day;  but  the 
morning  opened  with  a  pretty  severe  snow  storm,  wliich  rendered 
it  impracticable.  However,  we  proceeded  in  the  morning  through 
the  snow,  and  with  much  difficulty  reached  that  place,  where  we 
tarried  until  first  day.  We  had  then  a  very  comfortable  edifying 
meeting  with  Friends ;  and  continued  there,  at  the  house  of  om- 
kind  friend  John  Fry,  until  second  day  morning,  and  then  pro- 
ceeded to  Lpin. 

On  third  day,  the  16th,  we  proceeded  to  Seabrook,  in  order  to 
attend  the  quarterly  meeting,  which  opened  the  next  day  with  a 
meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders.  On  fifth  day  was  the  quarterly 
meeting  for  discipUne,  preceded  by  a  meeting  for  worsliip.  It 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


255 


was  a  season  of  favour,  esperially  the  meeting  for  worship, 
wherein  my  mind  was  largely  opened  to  preach  the  gospel  in  the 
demonstration  of  the  spirit,  to  the  comfort  and  edification  of  the 
upright  in  heart;  many  "being  reduced  into  a  state  of  humble 
contrition  and  thankfulness  for  the  unmerited  mercy. 

On  sixth  day  we  proceeded  to  Epping,  where,  by  previous 
notice,  we  had  a  meeting  in  the  evening,  in  which  the  Lord's 
power  and  presence  presided  in  a  very  eminent  manner ;  and 
his  truth  raised  into  victory  over  all,  and  ran  as  oil,  cjuieting  and 
solemnizing  every  thing  that  stood  in  opposition  to  its  pure  holy 
influence.  I  scarcely  ever  was  at  a  meeting,  wherein  all  werq 
so  swallowed  up  in  a  profound  solemnity,  that  when  the  meeting 
closed,  it  was  sometime  before  any  removed  from  their  seats. 
Surely  it  was  the  Lord's  doing. 

From  thence  we  went  the  next  day  to  Lee,  and  had  a  small 
comfortable  meeting  at  the  eleventh  hour,  and  then  proceeded  to 
Dover.  On  first  day  attended  Friends'  meeting  there  at  the 
eleventh  hoiu',  at  the  close  of  which,  feeling  a  draft  of  love 
towards  the  inhabitants  of  the  town  at  large,  with  the  unity  of 
Friends,  there  was  a  meeting  appointed  in  the  evening,  and 
general  invitation  given  ;  at  which  there  was  a  very  large  collec- 
tion of  the  various  sects,  amongst  whom  my  mind  was  largely 
opened,  and  my  tongue  loosed,  I  trust,  by  Him  who  opens,  and 
none  can  shut,  and  shuts  and  none  can  open,  to  declare  of  the 
things  concerning  the  kingdom  of  God,  and  to  point  out  to  the 
people,  in  a  very  clear  manner,  the  way  of  life  and  salvation, 
unfolding  many  important  doctrines  of  the  gospel,  in  the  clear 
demonstration  of  the  spirit,  bowing  and  hvmibling  many  minds 
present,  and  rejoicing  the  hearts  of  the  faithful ;  under  a  sense 
whereof  my  mind  was  bowed  in  deep  abasedness  for  the  favour. 
I  Next  morning  we  proceeded  to  Berwick,  and  had  an  instructive 
edifying  meeting  there  in  the  evening,  wherein  many  hearts, 
with  mine  own,  were  made  thankful.  The  next  day  we  pro- 
ceeded to  Portland,  a  town  on  Casco  Bay.  The  following  day, 
being  the  fourth  of  the  week,  we  rode  to  Falmouth,  and  attended 
their  select  meeting,  constituted  of  the  Ministers  and  Elders 
belonging  to  Falmouth  meeting.    It  was  small,  and  the  business 


256 


JOURNAL  OP 


conducted  in  a  very  ■ysreak,  and,  in  my  view,  a  very  improper 
manner ;  for,  previous  to  the  meeting,  it  appeared  that  the  clerk 
had,  at  his  leisure,  entered  the  business  of  the  meeting,  as  though 
at  meeting,  and  made  answers  to  all  the  queries ;  so  that  when 
the  meeting  collected,  they  had  nothing  to  do,  but  to  ?iear  him 
read  over  what  he  had  before  written,  and  which,  without  any 
alteration,  was  approved  ;  some  representatives  to  the  quarterly 
meeting  appointed,  and  the  meeting  closed.  On  taking  a  view  of 
the  subject,  I  was  led  to  believe  that  meetings,  held  in  such  a  way, 
brought  no  honour  to  the  cause,  nor  strength  nor  profit,  to  those 
.who  attend  them. 

At  the  close  of  the  meeting,  we  rode  to  our  friend  John  Wins- 
low's,  and  lodged ;  and  the  next  day  attended  Falmouth  monthly 
meeting.  The  two  following  days  we  attended  the  select  meeting 
at  Windham,  and  their  monthly  meeting.  First  day  attended 
Windham  meeting ;  and  on  second  day,  an  appointed  meeting 
at  Gorham.  On  third  day  we  rested,  and  wrote.  On  fourth 
day  their  quarterly  meeting  opened  at  Windham,  which  closed 
on  fifth  day.  Sixth  day,  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Fahnouth. 
On  seventh  day  rode  to  Durham  ;  and  on  first  day  attended 
their  meeting,  which  was  large,  notice  having  been  given  to  the 
neighbouring  inhaliitants  of  our  coming.  Second  day,  rode 
back  to  Portland,  and  had  an  appointed  meeting  with  Friends 
and  others  that  evening.  On  third  day  attended  an  appointed 
ineeting  at  Cape  Elizabeth,  and  then  returned  to  Portland,  and 
had  a  large  pulilic  meeting  in  the  evening.  On  fourth  day  we 
were  at  Scarborough. 

I  then  felt  m}^  mind  ndeased  from  any  further  service  in  this 
quarter ;  but  before  I  proceed,  am  led  in  humble  gratitude  and 
thankfulness  of  heart,  to  acknowledge  the  goodness  and  mercy 
of  Israel's  Shepherd,  who,  in  his  never-failing  love,  was  graciously 
near  from  place  to  place,  and  clothed  the  assemblies  with  his 
presence  and  power,  opening  my  mind  in  every  meeting  for 
worship,  to  preach  the  gospel,  humbling  and  confriting  many 
minds,  and  comforting  and  edifying  the  willing  and  upright  in 
heart.  Surely  it  is  the  Lord  that  worketh  in  us  and  for  ns ; 
magnified  and  adored  be  his  right  worthy  name,  both,  now 


EL  IAS  HICKS. 


257 


and  for  ever,  to  whom  all  the  praise  belongs:  nothing  due  to 
man. 

After  the  meeting  at  Scarborough,  I  went  with  my  kind  friend 
William  Cobb  to  his  house  at  Gorhara,  he  having  taken  me  in 
his  chaise  from  Portland  to  Scarborough  ;  for  our  way  of  travel- 
ling was  wit  h  a  sled :  but  the  snow  on  the  seacoast  Avas  so  wasted 
as  to  render  it  difficult  getting  along  with  it.  It  w^as  therefore 
concluded  that  my  companion  should  go  back  into  the  country 
to  Gorham,  where  the  snow  was  more  abundant ;  and  William 
accompanied  me  as  aforesaid.  We  met  again  in  the  evening  at 
bis  house,  and  the  next  day  returned  to  Berwick,  and  the  day 
following  to  Dover. 

On  seventh  day  I  proceeded  to  Rochester,  accompanied  by 
Thomas  Stackpole.  My  companion  l^eing  unwell,  it  was  thought 
best  for  him  to  rest  vmtil  our  return.  We  attended  the  upper 
meeting  in  that  town  in  the  evening ;  and  the  next  day,  at  the 
eleventh  hour,  were  at  the  lower  meeting.  After  this  we  returned 
to  Dover,  to  attend  a  meeting  in  the  evening,  which  had  been 
concluded  to  be  appointed  previous  to  my  going  out ;  and  general 
notice  having  been  given,  it  was  very  large.  They  were  all 
seasons  of  favour,  in  which  the  Lord's  presence  was  felt  to  preside, 
and  truth  raised  into  dominion;  particularly  the  last,  wherein  my 
heart  and  mouth  were  largely  opened,  and  the  gospel  preached 
in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  attended  with  power,  solem- 
nizing this  large  assemljly.  Truth  reigned,  and  the  meeting 
closed  with  humble  supplication  and  prayer  to  the  Lord. 

Second  day,  the  12tli  of  2d  month.  We  returned  to  Seabrook, 
to  the  house  of  our  kind  friend  Joseph  Phillhrick,  and  had  an 
appointed  niceting  there  that  evening.  Tiie  next  day  proceeded 
to  Almsbury  and  Newbury,  and  had  a  meeting  at  each  place,  the 
latter  in  the  evening.  They  were  open  favoured  seasons,  particu- 
larly the  meeting  at  Almsbur}',  in  w  hich  ti  iith  prevailed,  and  ran 
as  oil  over  all.  A  ministering  friend  obsei  ved.  after  the  meeting, 
that  he  believed  the  witness  was  raised  in  every  mind  present. 
It  was  indeed  a  precious  strengthening  opportunity  to  my  own 
mind :  may  the  honour  and  praise  be  all  ascribed  to  Israel's 
Shepherd,  to  whom  it  is  altogether  due.    How  deeply  humbling 


258 


JOURNAL  OF 


aiie  such  continued  mercies,  dispensed  to  us  poor  unworthy  crea- 
tures. Lay  low,  O  niy  soul !  for  thou  well  knowest  that  it  is  the 
Lord's  power  onl)^,  clothed  in  righteous  judgment  and  never-fail- 
ing mercy,  that  has  raised  thee  from  the  dunghill,  where  thou 
hadst  plunged  thyself  by  thy  own  follies ;  yea,  it  is  he  who  has 
plucked  thy  feet  out  of  the  mire  and  clay  of  sin,  and  set  them  on 
a  rock,  and  strengthened  thee  in  faith  to  believe,  that  as  thou 
dwellest  in  deep  Inmiiliation  before  him,  resting  on  his  mercy, 
until  self  is  fully  mortified,  and  the  old  man  with  his  deeds  is 
utterly  cmcified,  he  will  eslabUsh  thy  going,  and  put  a  new  song 
into  thy  mouth,  even  eternal  praises  to  thy  God.  Even  so  be  it. 
Amen. 

We  left  Newbury  on  fouilh  day  morning,  and  returned  to 
SaJem,  and  attended  their  meeting,  the  next  d.iy,  as  it  came 
in  course,  at  which  there  was  a  marriage  accomplished  be- 
tween two  worthy  Friends,  elders  in  society.  It  was  a  com- 
fortable edifjing  season,  in  which  I  was  led  to  set  forth  the 
deep  and  solemn  obligations  which  mutually  attach  to  the 
parties  entering  into  the  marriage  covenant — obligations  that 
can  never  be  rightly  and  harmoniously  fulfilled,  so  as  to  render 
the  parties  truly  happy  together,  unless  they  are  of  one  mind 
and  one  heart,  in  all  matters  of  importance,  but  more  espe- 
cially in  regard  to  their  principles  of  religion  and  faith ;  for  if 
these  are  diverse,  it  will  most  likely  imbitter  their  enjoyments, 
and  produce  discord  in  their  family,  and  tend  to  wound  and 
distract  the  minds  of  their  children,  should  they  be  favoured  witJi 
any.  It  therefore  bespeaks  great  presumption  and  folly  in  young 
people  to  risk  the  attempt,  especially  on  such  slender  reasons  as 
are  commonly  brought  forward  as  a  plea,  that  one  of  the  parties 
may  change  their  opinion,  and  come  to  imite  with  the  other. 
This,  however,  is  very  fallacious,  as  such  change  is  uncertain  ; 
and  no  man  of  reason  will  trust  thereto  in  the  most  trivial  matters, 
for  each  generally  suppose  themselves  in  the  right,  and  look  for 
the  other  to  condescend  and'  conform  ;  and  therefore  the  breach 
often  becomes  greater. 

On  sixth  day  evening,  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  for  the 
inhabitants  of  the  town  in  general.   It  was  very  large,  consisting 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


259 


of  the  various  religious  sects,  and  some  of  almost  every  description 
of  people,  who  commonly  reside  in  such  populous  towns.  I  was 
largely  opened  among  them  in  the  hne  of  the  ministry,  in  which 
I  was  led  to  set  forth  the  excellency  of  man's  primitive  state, 
before  the  fall,  in  which  he  was  placed  hy  the  wisdom  and  good- 
ness of  his  all-wise  and  gracious  Creator,  and  furnished  with 
sufficient  light  and  understanding  to  know  that  he  was  altogether 
the  work  of  his  almighty  power,  and  that  he  derived  his  hfe  and 
existence,  with  every  other  blessing  he  had,  or  could  have,  from 
his  bountiful  hand;  under  a  just  sense  whereof,  while  he  stood  in 
this  happy  state,  every  desire  of  his  soul  flowed  with  a  continual 
ascent  to  him,  as  his  only  comforter  and  preserver.  In  this  state 
he  reaUzed  the  condition  the  apostle  reminds  us  of  in  this  exhorta- 
tion :  "  Rejoice  evermore ;  pray  without  ceasing ;  and  in  every 
thing  give  thanks  :"  this  being  the  oidy  true  delineation  of  a 
faithful  servant  of  God.  But  from  this  happy  state  man  fell,  by 
a  wrong  use  and  abuse  of  those  powers  and  capacities  conferred 
on  him  as  a  free  agent,  and  without  whicli  he  neither  could  have 
known  nor  served  his  God  :  therefore,  man's  fall  was  altogether 
an  act  of  his  own  choice,  contrary  to  known  duty  ;  and  had  it 
not  been  so,  he  could  not  possibly  have  felt  giult  and  condemna- 
tion for  what  he  had  done. 

I  was  also  led  to  open  to  the  people  that  the  great  end  of 
Christ's  commg  was  to  introduce  the  gospel,  which  is  the  last 
and  most  blessed  dispensation  of  God  to  the  children  of  men,  as 
by  it  only  can  man  be  restored  to  this  primitive  state,  and  without 
which  restoration  he  cannot  ellbctually  serve  God  in  spirit.  This 
gospel  our  Lord  told  his  disciples  his  Father  would  send  them  in 
his  name,  and  which  is  the  Holy  Ghost  or  power  of  God  sent 
down  from  heaven,  which  well  agrees  with  the  doctrine  of  the 
apostle  Paul,  where  he  tells  us,  that  the  gospel  of  Christ  "  is  the 
power  of  God  unto  salvation,  to  every  one  that  believeth."  This 
therefore  supposes,  that  those  who  do  not  obey  the  spirit  of  truth, 
or  Holy  Ghost,  whi(  h  convinces  them  of  sin,  do  not  believe  the 
gospel,  and  therefore  are  not  benefitted  by  it :  of  course  they 
remain  under  the  power  and  dominion  of  sin. 

After  this  favoured  meeting,  I  felt  myself  much  indisposed 


260 


JOURNAL  OF 


with  a  very  severe  cold  and  fever,  and  had  to  keep  house  until 
the  next  third  day,  when  wc  proceeded  to  Lynn.  The  following 
day  we  attended  their  meeting  held  in  the  middle  of  the  week ; 
and  notice  being  given  of  our  intention  of  being  there,  it  was 
large.  The  power  of  truth  went  forth  freely,  tendering  many 
minds,  and  comforting  the  faithful  and  upright  in  heart. 

The  next  day  we  proceeded  on  our  vray  to  Long  Plain,  where 
we  arrived  the  day  following,  about  noon.  Had  a  meeting  there 
that  evening.  The  day  after  had  a  meeting  at  the  eleventh 
hour,  at  Accushnet.    They  were  both  favoured  meetings. 

We  then  proceeded  to  New  Bedford ;  and  the  next  day,  the 
first  of  the  week,  and  25th  of  2d  month,  we  attended  their  fore- 
noon and  afternoon  meetings.  In  these  my  mind  was  largely 
opened  in  gospel  communication,  tending  to  expose  the  man  of 
sin  and  son  of  perdition,  manifesting  that  he  was  nothing  but 
self  in  man,  and  showing  that,  in  his  mysterious  workings,  in 
leading  man  to  endeavour  to  imitate  God,  in  doing  good  and  per- 
forming acts  under  the  show  of  religion  and  religious  worship, 
but  all  done  in  his  own  will  and  time,  the  whole  mystery  of 
iniquity  is  comprehended.  For  in  man's  thus  turning  away 
from  God  and  the  inspirings  of  his  holy  spirit,  consists  his  fall, 
as  he  takes  upon  himself  an  independent  state,  and  assumes  the 
right  of  self-government,  and  becomes  his  own  director ;  there- 
fore, his  salvation  wholly  consists  in  surrendering  up  this  self- 
ability,  letting  it  die  on  the  cross,  and  returning  into  a  state  of  full 
submission  to  the  leading  and  sole  guidance  of  the  inspiring 
spirit  of  God.  My  mind  was  largely  opened  on  these  and  other 
truths  of  the  gospel  in  those  meetings,  whereby  truth  was  raised 
into  dominioii  over  all.  to  the  comfort  and  peace  of  my  own  mind, 
and  to  the  apparent  satisfaction,  instruction,  and  edification  of 
the  rightly  exercised  and  seeking  minds  present. 

The  three  following  days  we  attended  meetings  at  Newtown, 
Centre,  and  the  monthly  meeting  of  Dartmouth,  or  Aponegansett. 
In  each  of  these  I  was  largely  opened  in  gospel  communication, 
particularly  in  the  last.  The  truth  was  powerfully  raised  into 
dominion  over  all,  spreading  a  precious  solemnity  over  the  meet- 
ing, and  much  contrition  of  spirit  was  manifested.    It  was  the 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


261 


Lord's  doing,  and  to  liini  belongs  all  the  praise  of  his  own  work, 
nothing  due  to  the  creature  hut  blushing  and  confusion  of  face. 

I^iflh  and  sixth  days.  We  liad  meetings  at  Acoaksett,  alias 
West  Port,  and  Little  Compton.  In  both  the  gospel  was  preached 
in  truth's  authority ;  the  latter  especially  was  a  powerful  melting 
season  to  most  present,  inspiring  the  mind  with  deep  thankfulness 
and  gratitude  to  the  bountiful  Author  of  every  blessing. 

On  seventh  day  we  proceeded  to  Newport,  on  Rhode  Island, 
and  attended  Friends'  forenoon  and  afternoon  meetings  on  first 
day.  On  second  day,  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Portsmouth. 
After  this,  with  peace  of  mind,  we  left  the  island  that  afternoon, 
and  went  to  Tiverton,  and  lodged  with  our  kind  friend  Joseph 
Barker.  We  had  an  appointed  meeting  there  the  next  day,  and 
the  day  following  were  at  Swansey.  Truth  was  eminently 
exalted  in  these  meetings,  especially  the  latter,  which  was  a 
powerful  baptizing  season,  in  which  the  Lord's  presence  was 
witnessed,  and  much  brokcnness  and  contrition  of  spirit  was 
spread  over  the  meeting.  This  was  witnessed,  not  only  by 
Friends,  but  by  many  others  not  in  profession  with  us,  encou- 
raging and  gladdening  every  sincere  mind  for  the  unmerited 
favour.  After  this  solemn  meeting,  we  took  leave  of  our  Friends, 
and  rode  that  afternoon  to  Providence. 

Tlie  next  day  we  attended  P\iends'  meeting  there,  as  it  came 
in  course,  in  which  my  mind  was  led  to  exemplify  and  set  forth, 
the  excellency  and  blessed  eflects  of  true  and  strict  justice  in  all 
our  dealings  and  conmrerce  between  man  and  man,  as  rational 
social  beings ;  which  was  introduced  into  my  mind  by  the  re- 
membrance of  this  saying  of  the  wisest  of  men,  viz.  Solomon  : 
"  Rigliteousness  exalteth  a  nation,  but  sin  is  a  reproach  to  any 
people."  My  mind  was  opened  to  show  the  great  and  essential 
dilleronce  there  is,  between  (he  righteousness  of  man,  as  compre- 
hended in,  and  tolerated  by  the  laws,  customs,  edicts  and  tradi- 
tions of  men,  and  the  righteousness  of  God,  which  is  altogether 
comprehended  in  pure,  equal,  impartial  and  unchangeable  justice: 
showing  that  every  act  of  man,  which  is  not  in  conformity  to 
this  pure  and  impartial  justice,  is  sin  j  and  that  whatever  we  do 
that  has  a  tendency,  either  directly  or  indirectly,  to  counteract 


262 


JOURNAL  OF 


this  pure,  simple,  impartial  justice,  cannot  be  considered  as  any 
part  of  that  righteousness  which  exalts  a  nation,  as  it  cannot 
bring  glory  to  God  ;  for  no  righteousness,  but  God's  righteous- 
ness, wrought  in  man  by  this  pure  principle  of  justice,  can  possi- 
bly glorify  him,  as  this  must  be  the  foundation  of  every  virtue  in 
man. 

It  was  a  season  of  close  searching  labour,  by  which  the  hidden 
things  of  Esau,  or  the  first  nature,  in  which  the  serpentine  wis- 
dom works,  deceiving  multitudes ;  was  brought  to  light  and 
exposed :  especially  that  cunning  sophistical  reasoning  in  the 
wisdom  of  this  world,  wliich  many  people  are  making  use  of  to 
justify  themselves,  and  tlierel)y  stifle  and  put  to  silence  the  con- 
victions of  conscience,  while  acting  in  direct  opposition  to  this 
pure  principle  of  justice  ;  by  continuing  a  traffic  in,  and  makmg 
themselves  rich,  by  a  commerce  in  the  produce  of  the  labour  of 
the  poor,  afflicted  and  deeply  oppressed  Africans  and  their  de- 
scendants, held  in  a  state  of  slavery  by  the  mere  force  of  war, 
and  which  is  Avrested  from  them  without  their  consent.  Truth 
was  exalted  over  all,  and  unrighteousness  exposed,  and  its  evil 
effects  on  societies  and  individuals  manifested. 

After  this  arduous  meeting,  not  feeling  myself  clear  of  the 
town,  I  appointed  another  meeting  in  the  evening.  Pul)lic  notice 
being  given,  it  was  large,  not  only  of  the  white  inhabitants,  but 
a  large  number  of  the  people  of  colour  also  attended.  It  was  a 
season  of  favour,  and  much  doctrine  was  communicated,  suited 
to  the  states  of  those  present ;  tending  to  the  edification  and 
instruction  of  the  seeking  minds  of  the  varied  sects,  many  of 
whom  were  collected  in  this  solemn  a.ssembly.  I  closed  with  a 
peaceful  mind,  and  the  next  day  we  proceeded  to  Scituate,  and 
had  a  very  edifying  tendering  meeting  there. 

The  day  following,  being  the  first  of  the  week,  we  were  at 
Friends'  meeting  at  Poster.  It  was  a  small  meeting  of  Friends, 
but  a  very  consideraljle  number  of  the  neighbouring  jjeople  came 
in  of  different  persuasions.  I  was  led  to  open  and  explain  among 
them  many  essential  doctrines  of  Christianity,  which,  crossing  the 
carnal  ^^ews  of  these  outside  professors,  and  striking  at  their 
creaturely  activity  in  their  religious  services,  I  felt  as  I  proceeded 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


a  strong  spirit  of  opposition  in  some  of  this  description,  but  truth 
favoured  so  tliat  no  outward  oppoi-^ition  was  manifested,  and  the 
meeting  closed  under  a  covering  of  solemn  quiet. 

On  second  day  evening  we  attended  an  appointed  meeting  in 
Friends'  meeting-house  at  Plainfield.  There  are  but  few  Friends 
belonging  to  this  meeting,  the  whole  consisting  of  but  three  fami- 
lies ;  but  a  considerable  number  of  their  neighbours  came  in  and 
sat  with  us.  We  likewise  appointed  another  meeting  the  next 
day  at  a  Friend's  house  in  the  northern  part  of  this  town,  at  the 
second  hour  in  the  afternoon,  which  was  well  attended  by  the 
neighbouring  people.  These  two  last  meetings  closed  my  visit  to 
Friends  and  others,  in  the  compass  of  Rliode  Island  yearly  meet- 
ing. I'hey  were  opportunities  of  favour,  in  which  much  gospel 
instruction  was  communicated,  to  the  general  edification,  comfort 
and  satisfaction  of  the  people,  and  which  was  acknowledged  by 
many  of  them.  In  parting  with  them  I  felt  the  incomes  of  sweet 
peace,  as  a  crown  to  all  my  deep  exercises  and  ardent  gospel 
labours,  in  this  visit  to  Friends  and  others  in  the  compass  of 
that  yearly  meeting  :  a  sense  of  which  humbles  my  mind  in 
deep  thankfulness  and  gratitude,  to  the  bountiful  Author  of 
all  our  mercies  and  blessings,  who  is  over  all,  God  blessed  for 
ever. 

We  proceeded  from  thence  on  fourth  day,  directly  to  the  city  of 
Hartford  ;  and  on  fifth  day  evenirig  had  a  large  meeting  there, 
held  in  a  meeting-house  belonging  to  the  Baptists.  I  was  led 
forth  among  them  in  a  large  doctrinal  testimony,  showing  that 
Christ's  coming  in  the  flesh,  was  designed  to  supersede  the  dis- 
pensation of  Moses,  which  stood  in  mere  legal  righteousness, 
consisting  of  carnal  ordinances,  and  relating  only  to  the  outward 
or  animal  body,  made  up  of  circumcision,  outward  sacrifices,  ele- 
mentary washings  and  cleansings,  and  the  blood  of  slain  beasts, 
&c. :  all  which  were  only  outward,  and  therefore  could  not  effect 
the  soul,  nor  make  the  comers  thereunto  perfect,  as  pertaining 
to  the  conscience. 

I  was  likewise  led  to  open  the  nature  of  the  true  Christian 
Sabbath,  which  is  the  antitype  of  the  typical  one,  and  does  not 
consist  in  a  rest  to  the  body  merely  for  a  day,  but  in  a  perpetual 


264 


JOURNAL  OF 


rest  to  the  sdUl  by  its  coming  into  Christ,  and  submitting  to  the 
government  of  his  spuit,  and  entirely  cca.^ing  from  its  own  will- 
ings  and  runnings,  by  which  reconcihation  is  witnessed,  and  peace 
made  with  our  lieavenly  Father.  TJiese  things  and  much 
more,  I  had  to  open  to  the  people,  in  the  fresh  feehngs  of  the  love 
and  hfe  of  truth,  which  was  exalted  overall.  The  next  day  we 
rode  to  Woodbury,  with  a  jnospect  of  obtaining  a  religious  oppor- 
tunity with  the  people  ;  but  way  not  opening  for  it,  we  proceeded 
the  day  after  to  New  Milford,  and  the  next  day  being  the  first  of 
the  week,  we  had  a  comfortable  etUfying  meeting  with  Friends, 
and  a  large  collection  of  their  neighbours  Avith  them. 

After  this,  we  rode  that  afternoon  to  Oblong,  and  the  next  day 
attended  the  monthlj'  meeting  there.  In  the  meetmg  for  wor- 
ship, the  Lords  jiower  was  eminently  exalted,  and  truth  was 
raised  into  dominion ;  the  season  was  deeply  instructive  and  edi- 
fying. The  day  after  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  in  the  town 
of  Patterson,  where  no  Friend  resides.  It  was  held  in  a  school- 
house,  and  proved,  through  divine  favour,  an  instructive  bap- 
tizing season.  From  thence  we  proceeded  to  the  Valley,  and  the 
following  day  had  a  precious  strengthening  opportimity  with 
Friends  and  others,  in  Friends'  meeting-house  there. 

We  then  rode  to  North  Salem,  and  the  next  day  being  their 
meetuig  day  m  the  middle  of  the  week,  we  attended  it :  and 
notice  being  given  that  we  were  there,  it  was  consideral)ly  en- 
larged by  a  number  of  the  neighbourmg  inhabitants  coming  in. 
The  forepart  of  the  meeting  was  exercising :  my  mind,  in  silent 
waitmg,  wa^  dipped  into  a  deep  sense  of  poverty  and  darkness, 
and  as  I  sat  patiently  under  the  unpression,  I  was  led  gradually 
into  a  view  of  the  cause,  which  appeared  to  be  too  much  crea- 
turely  activity  and  a  froward  wUl.  As  light  began  to  arise  and 
expel  the  darkness,  there  was  brought  to  remembrance  these  ex- 
pressions of  Solomon :  "  Keep  thy  foot  when  thou  goest  to  the 
house  of  God,  and  be  more  ready  to  hear,  than  to  give  the  sacri- 
fice of  fools  :  for  they  consider  not  that  they  do  evil :"'  and  also, 
"  But  the  talk  of  the  lips  tendeth  only  to  penury."  These 
were  opened  in  a  way  that  led  to  communication,  in  which  I 
had  to  show  the  very  liurtfid  tendency  of  creatmely  activity  in 


KLIAS  HICKS. 


265 


matters  of  religion  and  religious  worship,  and  the  absolute  ne- 
cessity of  a  complete  redemption  from  self,  and  all  self  motives,  in 
the  great  work  of  our  salvation.  As  I  proceeded,  tlie  life  rose,  and 
truth  prevailed  and  spread  over  the  meeting  in  an  eminent 
manner.  After  this  favoured  meeting,  I  found  there  was  suffi- 
cient cause  for  my  exercise ;  and  I  was  glad  that  I  was  altogether 
ignorant  of  it  from  any  outward  information. 

The  next  day  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Amawalk. 
It  was  favoured  with  the  Lord's  presence  and  power ;  and  many 
hearts  were  contrited  and  made  thankful,  under  a  sense  of  his 
continued  mercy. 

We  proceeded  from  thence  to  Peekskill,  where,  by  previous 
appointment,  we  had  a  meeting  the  following  day,  which  was 
crowned  with  the  Lord's  blessing.  Surely  the  Lord  is  good  and 
gracious,  and  his  mercy  endurcth  for  ever;  foi-*did  he  deal  with 
us  according  to  our  deserts,  surely  we  might  ere  now  all  have 
been  consumed :  for  as  I  passed  along  from  place  to  place,  I  dis- 
covered great  imfaithfulness,  and  want  of  right  submission  to  the 
divine  will,  ^vith  many  Friends  as  well  as  others  ;  under  a  feel- 
ing sense  whereof,  I  was  often  led  in  a  line  of  close  searching 
doctrine,  by  which  the  hidden  things  of  Esau,  or  the  works  of 
the  first  birth  or  fallen  nature  were  brought  to  light  and  exposed, 
in  a  way  that  showed  it  was  the  Lord's  doing :  and  my  heart, 
with  the  hearts  of  (he  faithful  few  were  made  glad  in  his  power, 
and  his  everlasting  loving  kindness  to  the  children  of  men. 

The  next  day  being  the  first  of  the  week,  we  attended  Croton 
meeting.  The  number  of  Friends  there  is  small,  but  the  meet- 
ing was  large  for  that  place,  for  many  of  other  societies  came  in. 
The  doctrines  of  the  gos[)el  were  freely  and  largely  preached 
among  them,  to  the  instruction  and  edification,  I  believe,  of  most 
present,  and  to  the  peace  and  comfort  of  my  own  mind. 

Our  next  meeting  was  at  Shapaqua,  whicli  was  large,  and  a 
favoured  season.  The  two  following  days  we  had  meetings  at 
Croton  Valley  and  North  Castle,  in  both  of  which  I  was  helped 
to  clear  myself  among  the  people  in  a  line  of  plain  doctrine.  The 
next  day  and  the  fifth  of  the  week,  we  had  an  appouited  meeting 
at  Purchase,  which  was  a  large  satisfactory  meeting.    The  two 


266 


JOURNAL  OP 


following  days  we  attended  meetings  at  Mamaioneck  and  West- 
cliester ;  in  both  of  which,  the  Lord's  power  was  manifested  for 
our  help,  and  the  gospel  preached  in  the  demonstration  thereof, 
and  its  divine  influence  tendered  and  contrited  many  hearts  ; 
especially  in  the  latter,  which  being  the  last  meeting  I  had  in 
this  journey,  it  proved  a  crowning  season,  in  which  truth  was 
raised  into  victory  over  all,  and  the  Lord's  name  praised  and 
magnified  for  his  goodness  and  marvellous  loving  kindness  to  the 
children  of  men.  After  this  solemn  meeting  I  felt  myself  at 
liberty  to  return  home,  where  I  arrived  safe  that  evening,  and 
found  most  of  my  family  in  usual  health. 

I  was  from  home  nearly  three  months  in  this  journey,  travel- 
led upwards  of  one  thousand  mUes,  and  attended  fifty-nine  par- 
ticular, three  monthly,  and  two  quarterl)'^  meetings. 

First  day,  the  31st  of  3d  month,  1816.  Having  returned  from 
my  aforesaid  journey  last  evening,  sat  with  Friends  in  our  own 
meeting  to-day.  I  felt  things  to  be  very  low  in  a  religious  sense, 
and  my  mind  clothed  with  much  poverty,  which  appeared  to  me 
m  the  openings  of  truth,  to  be  occasioned  by  Friends  suffering 
their  minds  to  be  too  much  overwhelmed  with  the  surfeiting  cares 
of  this  life,  which  I  was  led  to  open  to  them  in  a  plain  though 
tender  manner.  It  had  a  reaching  effect  on  the  meeting,  and 
contrited  many  hearts  ;  may  it  fasten  as  a  nail  in  a  sure  place,  is 
the  fei-vent  desire  of  my  mind. 

Fifth  day.  Since  first  day  I  have  been  somewhat  circum- 
stanced as  Mordecai  formerly  at  the  king's  gate,  waiting  and  watch- 
ing in  much  poverty  of  spirit,  against  intervening  temptations, 
while  making  some  necessary  arrangements  respecting  my  tem- 
poral affairs ;  being  desirous  that  they  may  all  be  so  conducted, 
under  the  ordering  and  limitation  of  truth,  as  to  accord  with  the 
will  of  my  heavenly  Father,  and  thereby  bring  glory  to  his  excel- 
lent name.    Sat  our  meeting  to-day  in  silence. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Nothing  transpired  requiring  par- 
ticular notice. 

First  day.  I  was  led  in  our  meeting  to-day,  under  a  sense  of 
the  great  want  among  mankind  in  general  of  a  right  concern  to 
become  acquainted  with  their  Creator,  to  set  forth  the  great  loss 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


26t 


and  suffering  which  must  necessarily  result  to  them  from  this 
state  of  ignorance,  and  want  of  the  true  knowledge  of  God,  and 
of  his  will  concerning  them. 

Seventh  day,  the  13th  of  4th  month.  Thidi  week  has  passed 
since  first  day,  without  feeling  sufficient  to  warrant  making  a 
short  note ;  but  being  at  present  musing  on  the  past  time,  and  feel- 
ing no  condemnation,  although  I  had  passed  the  present  week 
mostly  in  caring  for  my  temporal  concerns  ;  yet  not  so  much,  I 
trust,  from  the  love  I  have  for  the  world  or  the  things  of  it,  but 
more  especially  from  a  sense  of  duty,  that  I  may  honestly  pro- 
vide for  the  outward  welfare  of  myself  and  family,  and  have, 
throu^i  the  blessing  of  a  kind  and  benevolent  Providence  on  my 
frugal  industry,  a  sufficiency  when  called  from  my  home  and 
from  every  temporal  enjoyment  there,  for  the  gospel's  sake,  to 
keep  the  gospel  free  from  charge,  and  that  I  abuse  not  my  power 
in  the  gospel.  For  this  care,  I  often  fear  is  too  much  wanting  by 
some  who  go  out  on  that  solemn  embassy ;  which,  if  not  guarded 
against,  may  not  only  tend  to  frustrate  the  end  of  their  labours, 
but  prove  a  stone  of  stumbling  to  many  seeking  minds.  For 
how  inconsistent  it  must  appear  in  those  who  profess  to  have 
taken  up  their  cross  to  self  and  the  world,  to  follow  their  self- 
denying  Saviour  in  the  plain  path  of  duty,  to  be  anxious  about 
what  they  shall  eat  or  drink,  or  what  they  shall  wear ;  or  mani- 
fest a  desire  after  praise  or  applause  from  their  Friends  or 
others,  or  have  their  hands  and  hearts  open  to  receive  the  gratui- 
ties of  the  rich.  For  all  these  may  be  considered  when  sought 
after,  as  bribes  to  the  receivers,  and  it  places  such  under  the  ap- 
pellation of  hirelings  ;  for  although  there  may  not  have  been  any 
previous  contract,  yet,  receiving  benefits  in  that  way,  I  conceive, 
will  bring  the  receiver  under  obligations  to  the  giver,  and  place 
the  individual  in  a  situation  not  fit  for  a  free  minister  of  the 
gospel. 

First  day.  Sat  our  meeting  to-day  mostly  in  silence,  and  in 
suffering  with  the  seed,  that  lies  oppressed  as  a  cart  under  sheaves, 
in  the  minds  of  most  of  the  professors  of  Christianity ;  but  towards 
the  close  a  gleam  of  hght  broke  forth,  in  the  remembrance  of 
that  saying  of  Christ,  where  he  tells  us,  that  the  kingdom  of  God 


268 


JOURNAL  OF 


is  within,  and  that  it  doth  not  come  through  outward  observation. 
The  subject  opened  in  a  Hvely  manner  on  my  mind,  which  led 
to  communication,  and  brought  a  solemn  weight  over  the  meet- 
ing, and  we  parted  under  the  favour. 

The  three  following  days  I  kept  much  within,  being  under 
very  considerable  bodily  afliiction,  although,  at  intervals,  so  as  to 
pay  some  necessary  attention  to  my  family  affairs,  not  being 
willing  to  let  any  portion  of  precious  time  pass  away  unimproved, 
as  I  cannot  suppose  that  any  part  of  our  time  is  dispensed  to  us 
for  nought. 

Fifth  day.  This  was  the  time  of  our  monthly  meeting,  at 
which  the  queries  were  answered,  and  accounts  prepared  to  go 
up  to  the  yearly  meeting.  How  deep  and  solemn  our  deliberations 
are  on  such  occasions,  not  only  that  our  answers  may  be  consist- 
ent with  truth,  without  any  false  colouring  or  evasion,  but  that 
all  may  be  done  under  the  influence  of  that  divine  power,  which 
humbles  and  abases  the  creature,  and  which  only  can  qualify  for 
the  Lord's  work  and  service,  whether  in  ministry  or  disciphne. 
At  tliis  time  I  returned  the  minute  I  had  from  the  meeting,  to 
perform  my  late  visit  to  Friends  in  New  England,  with  a  short 
account  of  my  journey. 

Sixth  day.  Attended  our  meeting  for  Ministers  and  Elders, 
at  which  nothing  unusual  occurred. 

Seventh  day.    Quietly  spent  in  my  temporal,  concerns. 

First  day,  the  21st.  My  mind,  in  our  meeting  to-day,  was 
brought  under  a  deep  feeling  exercise,  in  sympathy  with  back- 
sliders, and  such  as,  having  been  often  reproved,  continue  still  to 
revolt.  Tlie  power  of  truth  went  forth  to  these  in  a  searching 
arousing  manner  :  may  it  prove  efl'ectual  to  produce  in  such  more 
stability  and  faithfulness  to  the  convictions  of  divine  grace,  whicli, 
as  they  become  fully  oliedient  thereunto,  will  work  their  salvation ; 
otherwise  these  may  share  the  fate  described  by  one  formerly  : 
"  He  that,  being  often  reproved,  hardeneth  his  neck,  shall  sud- 
denly be  destroyed,  and  that  without  remedy." 

The  rest  of  this  week  I  spent  principally  in  attending  our 
quarterly  meeting,  held  at  this  time  in  New- York.  It  was  for 
the  most  part  a  favoured  season,  but  would  have  been  more  so, 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


269 


had  not  some  in  the  ministry  quite  exceeded  the  mark  by  unne- 
cessary communication.  For  very  great  care  ought  to  rest  on 
the  minds  of  ministers,  lest  they  become  burthensome,  and  take 
away  the  Hfe  from  the  meeting,  and  bring  over  it  a  gloom  of 
death  and  darkness,  that  may  be  sensibly  felt. 

First  day,  the  28th.    A  silent  meeting  to-day. 

Second  day.  In  the  afternoon  of  this  day  I  accompanied  a 
friend  to  a  meeting  he  had  appointed  at  Jerusalem.  There  was 
a  considerable  collection ;  but  the  meeting  proved  trying,  not 
only  in  the  silent  part,  but  when  our  friend  was  communicating, 
there  seemed  to  be  a  great  weight  of  death  over  the  meeting,  and  the 
people  appeared  generally  very  dull  and  lifeless.  I  was  very  much 
borne  down  under  a  feehng  sense  of  it,  so  that  I  had  not  the 
least  prospect  that  I  should  have  any  thing  to  communicate,  as 
I  felt  nothing  in  myself  to  offer,  nor  did  there  appear  any  dispo- 
sition or  fitness  in  the  people  to  receive  ;  but  just  before  the  close, 
some  time  after  the  Friend  had  sat  down,  there  was  a  small  pre- 
sentation opened  on  my  mind,  attended  with  a  degree  of  life, 
which,  as  I  yielded  thereto,  it  spread  a  comfortable  calm  over 
the  meeting  generally,  insomuch  that  I  thought  that  the 
fragments  which  were  left,  after  each  had  had  their  portion, 
were  more  than  the  whole  stock  in  the  beginning,  like  the 
fiagments  of  the  loaves  and  fishes,  when  the  multitude  were 
fed  formerly. 

I  accompanied  the  aforesaid  Friend  on  fourth  day  to  Bethpage, 
but  sat  the  meeting  in  silence.  He  appeared  in  a  pretty  long 
testimony,  but  it  was  rather  a  dull  heavy  season,  and  but  little 
life  to  be  felt,  so  true  is  that  saying,  that,  "  Except  the  Lord  build 
the  house,  they  labour  in  vain  that  build  it ;  except  the  Lord 
keep  the  city,  the  watchman  waketh  but  in  vain."  He  returned 
with  me  and  attended  our  meeting  the  next  day,  and  had  a 
pretty  favoured  time  in  the  meeting,  and  was  led  to  open  divers 
passages  of  scripture  in  a  pretty  clear  manner,  which  rendered 
the  season  instructive  and  satisfactory. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Passed  without  any  thing  transpiring 
worthy  of  remark. 


270 


JOURNAL  OP 


First  day,  the  5th  of  5th  month.  Being  invited  to  attend  the 
funeral  of  one  of  my  wife's  cousins,  on  Cowneck,  I  accompanied 
her  thereto.  There  was  a  large  collection  of  people ;  but  by 
their  untimely  and  irregular  gathering,  the  opportunity  was 
much  interrupted ;  yet,  through  the  condescending  goodness  of 
Israel's  Shepherd,  the  power  of  truth  went  forth  freely  to  the 
people,  tendering  and  contriting  many  hearts,  particularly  among 
the  youth :  may  it  fix  on  their  minds  as  a  nail,  driven  by  the 
Master  of  assemblies,  in  a  sure  place. 

The  rest  of  this  week  I  spent  about  home,  being  somew^hat 
unwell ;  yet  not  so  much  so,  but  that  I  attended  our  preparative 
meeting  on  fifth  day.  <j 

First  day,  the  12th.  Feeling  considerably  indisposed,  I  did 
not  get  out  to  meeting  to-day ;  yet  had  to  reflect  how  very  seldom 
I  had  been  prevented  by  indisposition  for  many  years  past,  being 
generally  preserved  in  liealth,  a  favour  worthy  of  grateful 
acknowledgments. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  monthly  meeting.  It  was  a  low 
dull  season,  through  the  greater  part  of  the  first  meeting ;  but 
just  before  the  close,  a  small  gleam  of  light  appeared,  which, 
with  a  short  commimicafion  from  a  female,  brought  the  meeting 
to  a  pretty  comfortable  conclusion. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Spent  in  my  family  avocations, 
clothed  with  poverty  of  spirit,  yet  not  altogether  cast  down,  being 
encouraged  at  times  with  the  remembrance  of  the  divine  promise 
succeeding  the  flood,  that,  "  While  the  earth  remaineth,  seed- 
time and  harvest,  and  cold  and  heat,  and  summer  and  winter, 
and  day  and  night,  shall  not  cease."  As  in  my  past  winter 
journey,  I  witnessed  summer  and  harvest,  so  now  I  may  rest 
patiently  in  the  divine  promise,  with  the  assurance,  that  as 
winter  in  due  course  has  succeeded  summer,  so  likewise  summer 
by  and  by,  in  its  turn,  will  succeed  winter,  and  the  time  of  the 
singing  of  birds  will  come,  and  the  drooping  spirit  will  again 
rejoice  in  the  Lord,  and  joy  in  the  God  of  its  salvation. 

Nothing  requiring  a  note  the  following  week,  except,  that  on 
seventh  day,  the  25th  of  the  month,  I  proceeded  to  New- York, 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


271 


in  order  to  attend  our  approaching  yearly  meeting,  which  opened 
for  Ministers  and  Elders  at  the  tenth  hour  this  morning ;  but 
the  morning  being  rainy,  we  did  not  arrive  ui  season  to  attend 
the  first  sitting.  The  meeting  continued  by  adjournments  until 
the  following  sixth  day,  and  was  in  the  main,  I  think,  a  favoured 
meeting,  the  Lord  graciously  manifesting  himself  to  be  near, 
suppressing  forwar(il|)irits,  that  would  now  and  then  start  up  to 
the  hurt  of  the  meeting,  and  uniting  the  Uving  baptized  members 
in  a  joint  travail  for  the  promotion  of  right  order,  and  the  increase 
of  the  Messiah's  kingdom  in  the  earth.  We  returned  home  on 
seventh  day. 

First  day,  the  2d  of  6th  month.  Attended  our  meeting  in 
the  morning  in  silence ;  but  in  the  afternoon  meeting,  appointed 
by  a  friend  from  Pennsylvania,  I  had  a  pretty  full  opportunity, 
after  the  Friend  who  appointed  the  meeting  had  relieved  his  mind, 
to  call  the  people's  attention  to  the  only  sure  guide,  the  light 
of  God's  spirit  in  their  own  hearts  and  minds,  which  reveals  to 
every  man  and  woman  all  things  that  they  had  ever  done,  as 
Jesus  did  to  the  woman  of  Samaria,  reproving  for  the  evil,  and 
justifying  for  the  good :  and  were  men  and  women  all  as  faithful 
to  themselves,  as  this  divine  reprover  is  to  them,  they  would 
all  witness  the  blessing  of  peace ;  and  if  they  held  out  in 
faithfulness  and  obedience  to  the  end,  the  answer  of"  well  done, 
thou  good  and  faithful  servant",  would  be  the  happy  portion  of 
them  all. 

Fifth  day.    Attended  our  meeting  in  silence. 

First  day,  the  9th.  Had  the  company  of  two  female  Friends 
from  Philadelphia,  who  were  travelling  in  the  ministry,  at  our 
meeting.  It  proved  a  hard  trying  season :  one  of  them  was 
exercised  in  public  testimony,  and  although  she  appeared  to 
labour  fervently,  yet  but  little  life  was  felt  to  arise  during  the 
meeting.  This  makes  the  work  hard  for  the  poor  exercised 
ministers,  who  feel  the  necessity  publicly  to  advocate  the  cause 
of  truth  and  righteousness,  and  yet  obtain  but  little  relief,  by 
reason  of  the  deadness  and  indifference  of  those  to  whom  they 
are  constrained  to  minister.  I  found  it  my  place  to  sit  silent, 
and  suffer  with  the  seed. 


272 


JOURNAL  OF 


Second  day.  Went  to  New- York,  in  order  to  attend  our 
meeting  for  sufferings,  which  was  held  the  next  day  at  the  ninth 
hour  in  the  morning.  I  accordingly  attended,  and  returned  home 
that  afternoon. 

The  rest  of  the  week  I  spent  about  home.  Attended  our  pre- 
parative meeting  on  fifth  day.  The  meeting  for  worship  was 
held  in  silence,  and  was  a  hard  trying  me^ftg. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


273 


CHAPTER  XII. 

Engagements  at  and  about  home,  and  within  Westbury  quarterly  meeting,  181G 

and  1817. 

First  day,  the  16th  of  6th  month,  1816.  My  wife  being 
under  an  appointment  to  meet  some  women  Friends  at  Beth- 
page  meeting,  I  accompanied  her  thither.  It  proved  an  exer- 
cising meeting,  especially  in  the  forepart ;  but  as  1  submitted 
cheerfully  and  patiently  to  endure  the  present  baptism,  which, 
indeed,  as  the  experienced  Paul  well  observes,  is  being  baptized 
for  the  dead,  'towards  the  latter  part  of  the  meeting,  that  all- 
quickening  and  vivifying  power  that  raises  the  dead  to  hfe,  was 
felt  gradually  to  arise,  by  which  my  mind  was  quickened  and 
led  to  minister  to  the  states  of  many  present.  Life  spread  over 
the  meeting  tendering  many  hearts,  and  we  parted  under  a  grate- 
ful sense  of  the  Lord's  mercies  ;  so  that  indeed  the  query  of  the 
royal  Psalmist  is  worthy  to  be  had  in  continual  remembrance : 
"  What  shall  I  render  unto  the  Lord  for  all  his  benefits  towards 
me  ?" 

Spent  the  rest  of  this  week  about  home.  Attended  our  monthly 
meeting  on  fifth  day,  but  nothing  unusual  transpired. 

First  day,  the  23d.  Had  the  company  of  our  friend  Mary 
Post  fi-om  Westbury,  she  being  engaged  in  a  visit  to  the  families 
of  Friends  in  our  monthly  meeting,  a  very  useful  service  when 
rightly  entered  into.  My  mind  in  this  meeting,  was  brought 
under  exercise,  in  the  remembrance  of  the  following  exhortation 
of  the  wise  king  Solomon,  viz  :  "  Keep  thy  heart  with  all 
diligence,  for  out  of  it  are  the  issues  of  life."  From  a  considera- 
tion of  which,  I  was  led  to  believe  there  was  a  veiy  great  want 
of  care  among  people  generally,  in  duly  guarding  their  rising 

35 


274 


JOURNAL  OF 


cogitations  and  thoughts,  as  it  is  the  avenue  by  which  all  temp- 
tations enter,  and  get  place  in  the  mind  :  and,  if  suited  to  our 
natural  propensities,  too  often  overcome  and  lead  to  undue  con- 
duct. The  subject  spread  on  my  mind,  and  led  to  an  impressive, 
and,  I  trust,  to  some,  an  instructive  communication ;  for  which 
my  mind  was  made  gratefully  thankful  to  the  Author  of  every 
blessing. 

Fifth  day.  Had  the  company  of  our  aforesaid  Friend  at  our 
meeting  to-day,  whose  simple  and  plain  communication,  tended 
to  quicken.  A  comfortable  degree  of  life  accompanied  my  mind 
during  the  meeting,  which  I  accounted  a  favour,  having  for  some 
time  past  witnessed  much  poverty  of  spirit  in  our  meetings.  The 
rest  of  the  week  I  attended  to  my  temporal  concerns,  as  much  as 
my  state  of  health  permitted  ;  but  being  much  ijidisposed  with 
bodily  pain,  it  was  but  little  I  could  do,  except  to  take  some  over- 
sight of  my  business.  This  I  consider  one,  among  many  other 
such  like  mementos,  to  remind  me  of  the  approach  of  my  bodily 
dissolution.  Be  attentive,  O  my  soul !  that  so  thou  mayest  be  in 
a  state  of  readiness  when  the  midnight  cry  is  heard:  "Behold 
the  bridegroom  cometh." 

First  day,  the  30th.  My  mind  was  led  into  close  exercise  and 
travail,  in  the  prospect  of  the  very  great  apparent  want  of  truth 
and  justice  among  the  generality  of  the  professors  of  Christianity, 
even  of  the  foremost  classes  of  the  different  sects.  The  subject 
spread  and  opened  to  communication,  in  which  the  attention  of 
the  auditory  was  impressively  called  to  the  subject,  as  one  of  the 
greatest  moment,  both  in  respect  to  our  temporal,  and,  in  a  very 
especial  manner,  ovn-  spiritual  good  ;  as  every  other  virtue  must 
fail,  and  prove  abortive,  where  truth  and  justice  are  wanting. 

The  rest  of  this  week  passed  away  without  anything  worthy 
of  remark,  except  great  poverty  of  spuit  being  almost  continually 
my  attendant. 

First  day,  the  7th  of  7th  month.  My  mind  was  opened  and 
enlarged  in  communication  in  our  meeting  to-day,  on  the  subject 
of  the  universal  love  of  God  to  the  children  of  men.  For  he  not 
only  extends  his  gracious  call  to  all,  but  causes  them  to  hear  it ; 
yet,  agreeably  to  that  scripture  testimony,  "  all  have  not  obeyed 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


275 


the  gospel."  There  are  also  many  other  plain  testimonies  in  the 
scriptures  of  the  same  import  ;  clearly  showing,  that  man's  de- 
struction and  misery  is  altogether  the  result  of  his  own  misconduct, 
and  disobedience  to  divine  requisition,  without  any  necessity  laid 
upon  him  by  his  gracious  Creator  to  err,  or  to  swerve  from  the 
path  of  rectitude ;  so  that  the  Lord  will  be  clear  of  the  blood  of 
all  his  rational  creation,  as  saith  the  prophet :  "  O  Israel,  thou 
hast  destroyed  thyself,  but  in  me  is  thy  help ;"  and  there  are 
many  other  passages  which  express  the  samfe.  My  mind  was 
led  to  open  these  subjects  in  a  clear  manner  to  the  people,  and  to 
show  that  the  want  of  a  right  faith  in  God  and  Christ,  as  in- 
wardly revealed,  was  one  of  the  greatest  obstacles  to  their  living 
a  just  and  righteous  hfe  in  the  sight  of  their  Creator,  as  the  just 
can  only  live  by  faith.  The  meeting  was  large,  and  many  hearts 
were  convicted,  comforted  and  contrited ;  to  the  Lord  only  belongs 
ali  the  praise,  nothing  due  to  man  but  blushing  and  confusion 
of  face. 

In  the  course  of  this  week  I  was  much  unwell,  forewarning  me 
that  my  glass  is  almost  run,  and  my  day  of  labour  drawing  to  a 
close.  My  indisposition  prevented  my  attending  our  preparative 
meeting  on  fifth  day.  These  things  all  imitedly  conspire  to  sound 
forth  this  language,  remember  to  die.  Oh  that  I  might  witness 
with  the  worthy  Paul,  more  and  more  a  daily  death,  to  every  thing 
that  tends  to  hinder  my  steady  walking  in  the  path  of  duty,  that 
so  my  day's  work  may  be  finished  in  the  day  time. 

First  day,  the  14th.  Having  so  far  recovered  from  my  indispo- 
sition as  to  get  to  our  meeting  to-day,  my  mind  was  opened  in  a 
living  powerful  testimony  to  the  excellency  of  the  gospel  dispen- 
pensation,  in  which  Christ  by  his  light  and  spirit  was  come  to 
teach  his  people  himself ;  a  Teacher  not  to  be  removed  into  a 
corner,  a  Shepherd  ever  present  to  lead  and  feed  all  his  sheep 
that  hear  his  voice  and  follow  him ;  and  do  not  follow  the  stran- 
ger, nor  listen  to  the  voice  of  any  outward  hireling  teachers, 
although  they  charm  ever  so  wisely.  It  was  a  season  of  favour, 
and  many  hearts  were  warmed  and  contrited  by  the  prevalence 
of  truth,  and  the  Lord's  name  was  praised,  who  is  over  all  worthy 
for  ever. 


4 


276  JOURNAL  OF 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  monthly  meeting,  at  wliich  the 
queries  were  read  and  answers  prepared  to  go  to  the  quarterly 
meeting.  To  judge  from  these,  it  would  appear  that  we  were 
generally  an  upright  people  ;  but  I  fear  our  answers  are  becoming 
too  much  like  many  of  us,  more  in  show  and  outside  appearance, 
than  in  spirit  and  substance.  For  by  this  formal  way  of  answer- 
ing them,  unless  great  care  is  taken,  our  queries  may  do  us  much 
more  harm  than  good  ;  and  this  fear  often  attends  my  mind,  and 
induces  me  to  call  the  attention  of  my  friends  from  the  letter  of 
discipline,  to  the  spirit  and  substance ;  without  which  all  letter 
and  outward  order,  however  beautiful  in  the  outward  appearance, 
is  but  as  sounding  brass  or  a  tinkling  cymbal,  and  will  in  the 
end  only  deceive  and  disa[)point  us,  and  unveil  our  nakedness. 

Sixth  day.  Was  our  preparative  meeting  of  Ministers  and 
Elders,  in  which  our  answers  made  a  similar  appearance ;  inso- 
much, that  there  was  but  little  to  find  fault  with.  I  hope  it  may 
stand  the  test  in  the  day  of  trial ;  this  we  ought  carefully  to  con- 
sider, otherwise,  in  the  end,  we  may  fall  short  when  it  may  be 
too  late  to  retrieve  the  loss. 

The  rest  of  the  week  I  attended  to  my  temporal  business  as  far 
as  my  bodily  infirmity  would  permit,  although  at  times  my  exer- 
cise produced  very  acute  pains.  I  find  it  needful  however,  to 
keep  up  a  continual  watch,  that  I  do  nothing  to  promote  or  en- 
courage idleness,  that  bane  to  every  Christian  virtue ;  and  espe- 
cially at  such  a  time  as  this,  when  most  of  our  capable  well- 
looking  young  men  are  running  into  cities  and  populous  towns 
to  engage  in  merchandise,  or  some  other  calling  by  which  they 
may  live  by  their  wits,  being  imwiUing  to  labour  with  their 
hands :  although  it  is  the  most  sure  way  marked  out  by  divine 
wisdom  for  our  truest  comfort  and  peace  here,  and  a  right  pre- 
paration for  eternal  joy  hereafter.  And,  although  many  fatal 
consequences  have  befallen  many  of  those  who  have  thus  run 
out  in  trade  and  mercantile  business,  apparently  to  the  ruin  of 
both  body  and  soul,  and  the  great  injury  and  distress  of  theii- 
families :  yet,  because  some  few  have  made  themselves  rich  in 
temporal  things  by  those  pursuits,  it  has  so  blinded  the  minds  of 


ELI  AS  HICKS. 


277 


many  that  they  will  not  take  warning,  but  go  on  in  their  wilful 
way  to  their  own  utter  ruin. 

First  day,  the  21st.  This  day  at  our  meeting,  my  mouth  was 
opened  in  a  full  testimony  introduced  by  this  scripture  passage : 
"  Wherewithal  shall  a  yoimg  man  cleanse  his  way  ?  by  taking 
heed  thereto  according  to  thy  word."  I  was  led  in  my  coimnu- 
nicatipn  to  show  to  the  people,  that  in  this  word  was  compre- 
hended the  great  gospel  privilege,  the  word  nigh  in  the  heart  and 
in  the  mouth ;  and  that  it  was  not  a  literal  or  outward  word, 
nor  any  created  thing,  but  the  uncreated  word,  Christ,  by  whom 
all  things  were  created,  or  at  first  spoke  into  existence  and  order. 
For  nothing  else  could  enable  us  to  cleanse  our  way,  or  live  a 
righteous  holy  life ;  and  that  it  was  only  by  a  living  faith  in  this 
inward,  operative,  powerful  word,  that  any  could  please  God  or 
be  acceptable  to  him,  and  was  the  only  means  by  which  we 
could  be  saved  :  and  that  it  was  offered  to  the  acceptance  of  all, 
and  therefore  all  were  encouraged  to  lay  hold  of  the  offered  merc)'^, 
and  not  slight  the  day  of  their  visitation. 

Second  and  third  days.  I  was  busied  in  overseeing  ray  tem- 
poral business,  attended,  at  times,  by  much  bodily  pain ;  and 
which,  I  trust  and  hope,  I  endured  without  improperly  complain- 
ing or  murmuring.  The  three  following  days,  I  attended  our 
quarterly  meeting,  held  this  time  at  Westbury.  I  think,  in  the 
main,  it  was  a  favoured  season.  The  meeting  was  large  and 
solemn :  the  divine  presence  and  power  were  evidently  felt  to 
preside,  humbling  many  minds  and  producing  contrition  of  spirit, 
and  the  gospel  labours  were  instructive  and  edifying. 

First  day,  the  28th.  A  quiet  day.  Sat  our  meeting  in 
silence. 

Fifth  day.  A  silent  meeting.  The  rest  of  the  week,  as  to 
bodily  exercise,  mostly  occupied  in  my  temporal  affairs. 

First  day,  the  4th  of  8th  month.  My  mind  settled  in  quiet 
with  the  exercise  of  this  day.  Besides  the  usual  care  and 
industry  necessary  in  my  temporal  concerns,  that  all  things  might 
be  rightly  arranged,  I  attended,  in  the  course  of  this  week,  our 
preparative  meeting  on  fifth  day,  and  the  funeral  of  a  deceased 
neighbour  on  sixth  day.  At  the  funeral  was  a  large  promiscuous 


278 


:journal  op 


assembly,  amongst  whom  my  month  was  opened  in  a  large 
searching  testimony,  suiting  the  occasion  ;  whereby  many  hearts 
were  tendered,  and  much  brokenness  appeared  in  the  meeting. 
The  truth  deUvered  being  brought  home  to  the  consciences  of 
many,  by  the  prevalence  of  the  divine  power,  which  was  emi- 
nently in  dominion  over  all. 

First  day,  the  11th.  1  trust  the  exercise  and  travail  of  our 
meeting  to-day  tended  to  profit. 

Second  day.  I  attended  the  funeral  of  our  friend  Edmund 
Pearsall,  of  Flushing.  His  corpse,  was  carried  into  the  meeting- 
house there;  and  a  large  solid  meeting  was  held  on  the  occasion. 

Third  day.  I  attended  our  meeting  for  sufferings  in  New- 
York,  which,  I  think,  was  an  instructive  season. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  monthly  meeting,  in  which  I 
opened  to  Friends  a  prospect,  which  had  for  several  months 
attended  my  mind,  to  pay  a  rehgious  visit  to  the  bordeiing 
inhabitants  of  our  cjuarterly  meeting ;  and  had  their  unity 
therein. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.    I  spent  in  my  usual  avocations. 

First  day,  the  18th.  My  mind,  as  I  sat  in  our  meeting,  was 
opened  into  a  view  of  the  great  benefits,  and  supreme  felicity, 
which  man  derives,  and  only  can  derive,  from  the  true  know- 
ledge and  right  fear  of  his  Creator ;  and  which  knowledge  and 
fear  no  man  can  witness  or  have  experience  of,  but  by  the  reve- 
lation of  the  spirit  of  God,  or  by  the  aid  of  that  light,  which 
Jesus  Christ  told  the  Jews  was  the  condemnation  of  the  world,  or 
of  all  those  who  did  not  believe  in  and  obe}^  it ;  and  which  is  an 
imoard  and  not  an  outward  light ;  and  all  its  manifestations 
are  in  the  mind  or  heart  of  man.  I  was  led  to  show  to  the 
people,  that  this  doctrine  was  altogether  the  most  rational,  and 
such  as  no  man  of  right  reason  could  doubt  or  dispute.  I  hope 
the  season  was  instinctive  to  some,  and  might  tend  to  remove 
doubts  from  some  doubting  minds,  as,  from  the  sensations  which 
I  had,  I  was  led  to  believe  there  were  some  such  present. 

Second,  third,  and  fourth  days.  I  attended  to  my  temporal 
concerns,  clothed  with  much  poverty  of  spirit;  yet,  not  altogether 
cast  down  nor  discouraged,  respecting  my  spiritual  welfare. 


ELIAS  HICKS, 


279 


Fifth  day.    A  silent  cpiiet  meeting. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Paid  some  attention  to  my  temporal 
business,  although,  at  times,  in  much  bodily  pain,  which,  more 
or  less,  attends  me  daily,  and  has  for  several  months  past. 

First  day,  the  25th.  According  to  the  prospect  opened  at  our 
last  monthly  meeting,  I  attended  two  appointed  meetings  in  the 
neighbouring  town  of  Hempstead ;  one  in  the  morning,  at  the 
eleventh  hour,  at  the  house  of  Samuel  Carman,  a  person  inclining 
to  Friends,  and  the  other  at  the  fourth  hour  in  the  afternoon,  at 
John  Raynor's,  about  four  miles  distant  from, the  former,  he  also 
being  kind  and  well  disposed  towards  Friends. 

These  were  both  pretty  full  meetings,  there  being  as  many 
people  as  the  rooms  could  well  accommodate.  Through  the 
gracious  condescension  of  the  Shepherd  of  Israel,  the  word  went 
forth  freely  among  them,  in  a  full  impressive  testimony  at  each 
place,  tendering  and  contriting  many  hearts,  and  to  the  increase 
of  love  to  the  truth,  and  to  the  promoters  of  it.  I  took  my  leave 
of  them  in  the  fresh  feelings  of  mutual  Christian  affection,  and 
returned  home  that  evening  with  a  quiet  peaceful  mind,  the  assured 
reward  of  faithfulness. 

The  rest  of  the  week  I  spent  in  my  vusual  avocations,  not  omit- 
ting the  attendance  of  our  meeting  on  fifth  day,  which  I  sat  in 
silence. 

First  day,  the  1st  of  9th  month.  I  attended  an  appointed 
meeting  among  my  relatives  and  acquaintance  at  Rockaway, 
the  place  of  my  former  residence,  when  young,  while  living  in 
my  father's  house.  The  meeting  was  not  large,  but  proved  a 
precious  tendering  season.  Many  hearts  were  much  broken  and 
contrited  by  the  prevalence  of  divine  love  and  power  that  accom- 
panied the  testimony  borne,  and  spread  generally  over  the  meet- 
ing, to  the  praise  of  His  grace  who  is  calling  us  to  glory  and 
virtue. 

I  A  concern  for  the  guarded  education  of  the  youth  among 
Friends  has  for  many  years  past  exercised  our  yearly  meeting ; 
and  many  advices  and  recommendations  have  been  issued  there- 
from to  the  quarterly  and  other  subordinate  meetings,  in  order  to 
Btk  up  Friends  to  vigilance  and  care  therein,  that  proper  schools 


280 


JOURNAL  OP 


might  be  established  among  them,  under  the  care  of  pious  tutors, 
that  so  Friends'  children,  while  getting  their  necessary  school 
learning,  might  be  religiously  instructed,  and  preserved  from 
evil  examples,  and  the  company  of  such  children  as  are  viciously 
inclined  ;  by  which  their  tender  minds  might  be  wounded,  and 
led  from  the  simplicity  of  truth.  In  order  further  to  stir  up 
Friends  to  this  concern,  our  last  yearly  meeting  directed  the 
quarterly  meetings  to  appoint  committees  to  visit  the  monthly 
and  preparative  meetings,  to  encourage  Friends  therein.  As  I 
was  one  among  other  Friends  appointed  by  our  quarterly  meeting 
for  that  purpose,  we  attended  the  monthly  meetings  of  New- 
York  and  Flushing,  in  the  course  of  this  week.  And  I  am 
thankful  in  believing  that  the  service  was  owned  by  the  Head  of 
the  Church,  who  was  graciously  near,  and  furnished  with  matter 
suited  to  the  occasion ;  insomuch,  that  1  have  cause  to  believe 
that  the  opportunities  at  each  place  were  instructive  and  edifying, 
affording  encouragement  to  the  wUhng-minded. 

First  day,  the  8th  of  9th  month.  I  found  it  my  place  to  be  at 
home  to-day,  and  of  course  attended  our  own  meeting.  Although 
most  of  the  forepart  of  tire  meeting,  I  apprehended  I  should 
be  permitted  to  sit  it  in  silence ;  yet  about  the  middle  there- 
of, my  mind  was  quickened  in  the  remembrance  of  the  tes- 
timony of  Solornon,  where  he  tells  us,  that  "  Wisdom  is  the 
principal  thing."  As  the  subject  spread  on  my  mind,  I  was  led 
to  consider  how  it  is  that  all  men  speak  highly  of  it,  and  yet,  at  the 
same  time,  are  not  at  all  rightly  acquainted  with  its  beginning ; 
and  are  therefore  mostly  living  all  their  days  without  the  right 
knowledge  of,  and  ac(|uaintance  with  it.  For  it  is  not  to  be 
derived  through  any  other  medium  than  the  tme  fear  of  the 
Lord,  which  we  are  told  is  the  beginning  of  wisdom  ;  and  as  it 
is  only  begun  in  man  by  this  true  fear,  so  hkewise  it  is  the  middle 
and  the  end  ;  as  every  advancement  in  true  wisdom  is  only  by 
the  fear  of  the  Lord :  surely,  then,  it  is -the  most  precious  of  any 
thing  to  the  children  of  men. 

I  spent  the  rest  of  the  week  about  home.  Attended  our  pre- 
parative meeting  on  fifth  day.  The  meeting  for  worship  was 
held  in  silence.    Our  yearly  meeting's  minute  of  advice  on  the 


ELIAS   HICKS.  281 

subject  of  schools  was  at  this  time  received ;  but  as  it  was  expected 
that  the  quarterly  nieetirifr's  coniuiittee,  on  that  subject,  would 
shortly  attend  the  preparative  meeting,  the  consideration  thereof 
was  deferred  to  the  time  of  their  attendance. 

First  day,  the  15th.  By  appointment  I  attended  two  meetings  ; 
one  at  Cold  Spring  at  ten  o'clock  in  the  morning,  and  the  other 
in  Friends'  meeting-house  at  Oysterbay,  at  the  third  hoUr  in  the 
afternoon.  Both  were  pretty  well  attended  by  the  neighbouring 
inhabitants,  among  whom  I  was  helped  to  preach  the  gospel  in 
the  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  accompanied  with  such  a  degree 
of  the  Lord's  power  and  presence,  as  to  produce  a  precious  solem- 
nity over  the  assemblies,  especially  the  latter,  wherein  many 
trutlis  of  the  gospel  were  largely  opened,  humbling  and  contiiting 
the  hearts  of  a  number  present.  Surely  it  was  the  Lord's  doing, 
to  whom  all  the  praise  and  glory  are,  and  ought  to  be  ascribed, 
both  now  and  for  ever. 

In  the  course  of  this  week,  I  attended  our  own  and  AVestbury " 
monthly  meeting,  in  company  with  tlie  quarterly  meeting's  com- 
mittee, on  the  subject  of  schools.     These  were  both  favoured 
opportunities.    Tlie  concern  was  opened  in  a  very  impressive 
manner,  and  spread  weightily  over  the  meetings,  the  men  and 
women  sitting  together  while  this  subject  was  before  them.  And 
I  have  a  hope  that  Friends  will  be  strengthened  and  encouraged 
to  persevere  in  the  concern,  and  keep  it  on  its  riglit  basis,  that  is, 
a  concern  for  the  religious  and  moral  instruction  of  oui'  youth, 
while  at  school,  by  placing  them  imder  the  care  of  pious  tutors, 
who  may  co-operate  with  the  endcavt)urs  of  religiously  concerned 
parents,- who  are  more  desirous  that  their  children  may  be  brought 
up  and  educated  hi  the  fear  of  the  Lord,  and  in  his  nurture  and 
admonition,  than  that  they  sliould  make  great  advancements  in 
scholastic  science,  or  obtain  the  riches  and  popularity  of  the 
world;  all  of  which  are  of  momentary  duration,  and  unworthy 
of  much  of  the  care  of  a  rational  hnmortal  being,  especially  when 
compared  with  the  blessings  attendant  on  a  truly  moral  and 
religious  life,  and  walking  in  the  fear  of  the  Lord. 

First  day,  the  22d.    In  prosecution  of  (he  concern  I  had 
engaged  in  to  visit  the  neighbouring  inhabitants,  notice  was 


285  JOURNAL  OP 

sent  to  Friends  of  Mai  tinicock,  that  I  proposed  to  attend  theh" 
meeting  at  this  time ;  and  desiring-  that  public  notice  might  be 
given  to  their  neighbours  who  were  not  inembers,  it  was  accord- 
ingly done.  By  this  means  the  meeting  was  very  large,  more 
so  than  I  had  ever  seen  it  before  ;  among  whom  I  was  helped  to 
labour  in  the  cause  of  the  gospel,  ojjening  many  important  scrip- 
ture passages,  tending  to  elucidate  and  confirm  many  points  of 
our  doctrine  and  principles,  to  my  own,  and  apparently  to  the 
general  satisfaction  of  the  asseml)ly.  At  three  o'clock  in  the 
afternoon  I  attended  another  meeting  at  Moscheto  Cove,  held  in 
the  house  of  the  widow  Hannah  A^alentine.  This  was  also  a 
large  favoured  meeting,  in  which  many  truths  of  the  gospel  were 
clearly  and  satisfactorily  opened.  I  returned  home  that  evening 
with  peace  of  mind,  from  an  inward  sense  that  I  liad  faithfully 
discharged  myself  among  the  people,  concerning  the  things  which 
relate  to  their  salvation. 

The  rest  of  the  Aveek  I  was  at  and  about  home,  attending  to 
my  usual  occupations.    Sat  our  fifth  day  meeting  in  silence. 

First  day,  the  29th.  I  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Cowneck  ; 
and  previous  notice  having  been  sent  of  my  intention  to  be 
there,  the  meeting  was  large,  and  favoured  in  a  good  degree  with 
the  overshadowing  of  the  divine  presence,  (enabling  to  preach  the 
gospel  in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  and  with  power  ;  break- 
ing and  contriting  many  hearts.  At  the  third  hour  in  the  after- 
noon, by  previous  appointment,  had  a  meeting  at  Hempstead 
Harbour,  at  the  house  of  Daniel  Robbins.  This  was  rather  a 
haid  exercising  meeting,  yet,  I  trust,  in  the  main  a  profitable 
season. 

The  following  part  of  the  week  I  spent  mostly  in  the  oversight 
of  my  farming  business.  Sat  our  fifth  day  meeting  again  in 
silence,  at  wliich  we  had  the  company  of  our  Friends  Isaac 
Martin  and  Henry  Shotwell,  from  Jersey. 

First  day,  the  6th  of  10th  month.  Attended  our  meeting  in 
silence.  It  was  in  the  main,  I  think,  a  weighty,  solemn  season. 
At  three  o'clock  in  the  afternoon,  I  had  an  appointed  meeting  in 
the  neighbourhood  for  the  people  of  colour.  It  was  held  in  one 
of  their  houses,  and  was  a  season  of  favour.   I  hope  it  may  prove 


ELIAS  IIICKS. 


283 


profitable  to  them.  For  this  portion  of  dedication  to  duty  in  the 
cause  of  righteousness,  I  felt  peace  in  my  own  mind. 

Second  day.  A  Friend  from  the  western  part  of  this  state, 
being  on  a  religious  visit  among  us,  had  an  appointed  meeting  at 
our  place  at  the  eleventh  hour.  It  proved  a  comfortable  edifying 
season.  After  this  I  rode  to  New- York  in  order  to  attend  our 
meeting  for  sufferings,  held  the  next  day  at  the  ninth  hour.  In 
the  course  of  tlie  busmess  that  came  before  us,  the  meeting  was 
led  into  an  exercise,  on  behalf  of  that  portion  of  the  descendants 
of  the  Africans  who  are  still  held  in  bondage  in  our  state.  A 
proposition  was  made  for  addressing  our  state  legislatine  on  their 
account,  in  order,  if  possible,  to  obtain  a  law  for  theii-  emancipa- 
tion ;  apprehending,  that  as  the  greater  part  of  these  long-oppressed 
people  had  now  obtained  their  freedom,  those  who  were  still  held, 
felt  their  condition  much  more  aggravating,  and  their  bondage 
more  intolerable ;  insomuch,  that  it  appeared  to  us  altogether 
just  and  consistent  with  the  duty  of  the  legislature,  to  restore  to 
them  the  just  right  of  freedom.  After  due  consideration,  the 
proposition  was  acceded  to,  and  a  committee  named  to  draft  an 
essay  of  an  address  accordingly. 

Fifth  day.  This  being  our  preparative  meeting,  in  which  our 
queries  were,  read,  and  answers  prepared  to'  go  to  the  quarterly 
meeting,  I  felt  my  mind  exercised  on  account  of  the  many 
deficiencies  apparent,  particularly  in  the  non-attendance  of  our 
religious  meetings,  as  a  failure  in  that  often  leads  to  greater 
deficiencies  in  other  respects. 

First  day,  the  13th.  My  mind  was  pretty  largely  opened  in 
testimony  (o  the  sufficiency  of  the  divine  light.  The  season  was 
solemn,  and  I  hope  instructive  and  profitable  to  many  present. 

At  three  o'clock  in  the  afternoon,  I  attended  an  appointed 
meeting  in  Woolver  Hollow,  a  neighbourhood  composed  mostly 
of  the  descendants  of  the  Dutch.  The  season  was  instructive, 
and  tending  to  edification  ;  and  I  parted  with  them  under  an 
humbling  sense  of  the  favoiu". 

Fifth  day.  Our  monthly  meeting  being  held  at  this  time, 
answers  were  received  from  our  preparative  meetings,  to  the  five 
queries  usually  answered,  in  which  divers  deficiencies  were 


284 


JOURNAL  OP 


Stated  ;  but  this  being  frequently  the  case,  it  produced  Uttle  or  no 
conceni  to  (he  greater  portion  of  the  members  ;  and  1  have  been 
afraid  at  times,  that  the  ([iieries  would  become  a  snare  to  us,  and 
prove  rather  hurtful  than  helpfial. 

First  day,  the  20th.  Had  a  conflicting  season  in  the  forepart 
of  our  meeting  to-day  with  a  worldly  spirit,  and  the  benumbing 
consequences  of  a  desire  after  riches.  And  while  labouring  un- 
der a  feeling  of  these  states,  with  their  stiipifying  eflTects,  which 
were  even  intolerable  to  bear,  it  often  ran  through  my  mind,  that 
"  the  cares  of  the  world,  the  deceitfulness  of  riches,"  and  the  lust 
of  other  things,  like  briars  and  thorns,  choke  the  good  seed  and 
prevent  its  growth.  And  as  I  continued  patiently  under  the 
labour,  towards  the  close  of  the  meeting  hght  sprang  up  and  dis 
pelled  the  darkness;  in  which  strength  and  al^ility  were  dispensed 
to  communicate  in  a  lively  and  clear  manner,  showing  the  perni- 
cious effects  of  those  things,  wherever  they  obtained  the  ascen- 
dency in  the  minds  of  men  and  women  ;  elucidating  the  subject 
by  the  parable  of  our  Lord,  concerning  the  rich  man  and  Lazarus 
the  beggar.  It  was,  I  believe,  a  season  of  real  instruction  to 
some  present,  which  I  hope  may  not  be  soon  forgotten. 

At  three  o'clock  in  the  afternoon,  I  attended  a  meeting  I  had 
previously  appointed  in  a  neighbouring  village.  It  proved  a 
satisfactory  season  to  my  own  mind,  and  generally  so,  I  believe, 
to  all  who  attended.  Tiiese  favours  are  not  to  be  lightly  esteemed, 
but  held  in  grateful  remembrance. 

In  the  course  of  this  week  was  our  quarterly  meeting,  lield  at 
this  time  at  Flushing.  Although  some  of  the  sittings  were  exer- 
cising and  arduous,  yet  in  the  main,  I  think,  it  was  a  favoured 
edifying  season  ;  and  we  parted  at  the  close  of  the  public  meeting 
on  sixth  day,  under  a  thankful  sense  that  the  Shepherd  of  Israel 
had  not  forsaken  liis  people,  hut  was  still  graciously  near,  a  pre- 
sent helper  to  all  his  failhful  and  devoted  cliildren.  In  the  course 
of  this  meeting,  on  the  evening  of  fifth  day,  I  had  an  appointed 
meeting  in  the  town  of  Jamaica,  among  those  not  in  profession 
with  us,  which  proved  a  very  satisfactory  season.  The  people's 
minds  a])peared  to  be  gathered  into  true  stillness,  a  situation  most 
suitable  to  be  taught  and  instructed. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


285 


First  day,  the  27th.  Sat  our  meeting  mostly  in  silence,  but 
towards  tlie  close  my  mind  was  opened  and  led  to  coninmnicate  a 
short,  but  lively  testimony,  which  was  introduced  by  the  greatest 
part  of  the  fii-st  psalm  of  David :  in  the  opening  of  which,  the 
meeting  appeared  generally  to  he  gathered  into  a  sweet,  comfortable 
solemnity,  and  we  j)arted  under  a  solemn  sense  of  the  unmerited 
favour. 

In  the  course  of  this  week,  I  attended,  in  company  with  most 
of  the  committee  of  the  quarterly  meeting  on  the  concern  relative 
to  schools,  the  two  preparative  meetings  in  New- York,  and  that 
at  Flushing  ;  also  an  appointed  meeting  at  Brooklyn  on  third  day 
evening,  and  one  at  Newtown  on  fifth  day  evening.  The  last 
was  a  very  instructive  favoured  meeting. 

First  day,  the  3d  of  11th  month.  Sat  our  meeting  to-day 
altogether  in  silence.  Spent  the  rest  of  the  week  principally  in 
attention  to  my  temporal  concerns,  which  I  believe  to  be  a 
Christian's  reasonable  duty ;  except  that  I  attended  in  company 
with  some  of  the  quarterly  meeting's  committee  on  fifth  day,  the 
preparative  meeting  at  Cowneck.  I  sat  the  meeting  for  worship 
in  silent  sufl'ering  ;  but  was  led  in  the  preparative  meeting,  pretty 
largely  to  o|X!n  the  nature  and  design  of  the  concern  of  the  yearly 
meeting,  with  regard  to  the  pious  and  guarded  education  of  the 
youth  of  our  society,  particularly  while  young  and  at  school,  in 
getting  their  necessary  school  learning;  that  they  might  as  much 
as  possible,  be  kept  out  of  harm's  way,  by  being  placed  at  schools 
under  the  care  of  pious  religiously  concerned  persons,  members 
in  society;  who  would  be  lilcely  to  co-operate  with  the  religious 
concern  of  their  parents,  in  endeavouring,  as  much  as  might  be, 
to  bring  them  up  agreeably  to  apostolic  exhortation:  "  In  the  nur- 
ture and  admonition  of  the  Lord."  For  there  is  notliing  that  can 
more  nearly  and  necessarily  engage  the  mindsof  rightly  exercised 
parents,  next  to  their  own  souls,  than  the  religious  welfare  of  their 
children  :  for  parents  who  can  live  in  the  neglect  of  this  great 
and  incumbent  duty,  must  be  dead  to  every  right  exercise  and 
concern  for  the  preservation  and  everlasting  welfare  of  their  ten- 
der offspring. 

First  day,  the  10th.    Sat  our  meeting  in  silence :  then  rode 


286 


JOURNAL  OP 


several  miles  to  visit  a  person  who  was  sick,  and  returned  the 
next  day. 

I  had  to  reflect  on  the  great  and  serious  loss  sustained  by  a 
large  portion  of  mankind,  from  the  want  of  due  attention  and  a 
right  perseverance  in  tlie  way  of  known  duty  while  young  in 
years  ;  that  when  they  are  advanced  in  age,  and  bodily  infirmi- 
ties interfere  and  increase  upon  them,  they  are  tossed  up  and 
down  in  their  minds,  and  can  find  no  sure  place  of  refuge  for 
their  souls  ;  like  a  ship  in  the  midst  of  the  ocean  without  a  helm, 
and  which  can  find  no  safe  anchoring  ground. 

On  fourth  day  attended  the  funeral  of  a  young  woman  on 
Cowneck,  who  was  taken  away  very  suddenly,  with  about  three 
hour's  illness.  I  had  an  open  time  among  the  people  that  were 
assembled  on  this  solemn  occasion,  and  was  led  to  call  their 
attention  to  the  propriety  and  necessity  of  an  early  preparation 
for  death  ;  and  to  show  that  it  manifested  great  presumption  in 
such  a  poor  impotent  creature  as  man,  who  was  so  sensible  of  the 
imcertainty  of  time,  to  dare  to  lay  his  head  down  at  night  to 
take  his  natural  rest,  without  knowing  his  peace  made  with  his 
God. 

Fifth  and  sixth  days.  Attended,  in  company  with  some  of  t  he 
committee  of  the  quarterly  meeting  on  the  subject  of  schools,  the 
preparative  meetings  of  Martinicock  and  Bethpage ;  both  of  which 
were  open  favoured  seasons,  while  the  subject  of  oin^  appointment 
was  under  consideration. 

On  seventh  day  I  attended  the  funeral  of  a  very  aged  man  of 
my  acquaintance,  being  upwards  of  ninety  years  old,  who  lived 
in  the  town  of  Hempstead.  There  was  a  pretty  large  collection 
of  the  neighbouring  inhabitants  present,  among  whom  I  was  led 
and  strengthened  to  open  divers  necessary  and  important  doc- 
trines of  the  gospel,  in  the  clear  demonstration  of  the  spirit ;  and, 
I  trust  and  hope,  to  the  edification  and  religious  instruction  of 
many  present.  Surely  it  was  the  Lord's  doing,  and  to  him  be- 
longs all  the  praise  and  honoiu"  of  liis  own  works,  and  nothing 
due  to  man. 

First  day,  the  17th.  Sat  our  meeting  in  silence.  It  was  a 
quiet  soUd  season.    The  rest  of  the  week  I  was  occupied  in  my 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


liusbandry  business,  except  attending  our  monthly  meeting  on 
fifth  (lay. 

First  day,  the  24th.  My  mind  in  our  meeting  to-day,  was 
led  into  an  humbling  exercise,  under  a  sensible  view  of  the  great 
ascendency  of  evil  over  the  good  among  mankind  in  general,  not 
excepting  the  best  regulated  society  among  men.  I  was  also  led, 
under  the  saddening  prospect,  to  communicate  to  the  meeting 
the  feeling  impressions  of  my  mind  thereon,  together  with  the 
causes  of  tliis  great  degeneracy  from  the  simplicity  of  the  gospel 
of  Christ ;  and  that  it  was  the  effect  of  a  spirit  of  ease  and  carnal 
security,  and  being  led  and  governed  in  our  conduct  and  works 
by  custom  and  tradition,  without  taking  the  pains  to  examine 
whether  they  were  founded  in  tmth  and  righteousness  or  not ; 
and  when  at  times  they  are  awakened  l)y  the  convicting  evidence 
of  truth  on  the  mind,  instead  of  willingly  submitting  thereto, 
they  call  to  their  aid  all  the  powers  of  their  reasoning  faculties  to 
drown  the  reprover's  voice,  that  so  they  may  rest  secure  in  their 
ceiled  houses.  Alas  for  these  in  the  trying  hour  of  final  deci- 
sion !  how  dreadfully  saddening  will  be  their  prospects  in  a  d3'ing 
hour  ! 

First  day,  the  1st  of  12th  month.  I  sat  with  Friends  at  West- 
bury.  The  meeting  was  for  the  most  part  a  dull  exercising  sea- 
son ;  but  towards  the  close  I  htad  a  short  testimony  given  me  to 
communicate,  in  which  the  state  of  the  meeting  was  so  opened 
as  to  have  a  very  reaching  effect  on  most  present ;  which  spread 
life  over  the  meeting,  and  much  tenderness  and  contrition  were 
apparent.  Surely  have  we  not  cause  for  these  favours,  often  to 
say  with  one  formerly  :  "  What  shall  I  render  unto  the  Lord  for 
all  his  benefits  towards  me." 

'  Second  day.  I  attended  the  funeral  of  a  near  kinsman  at  Far 
Rockaway,  at  which  I  had  a  very  open  time  amongst  the  people 
collected  on  that  solenm  occasion. 

!  1  returned  home  on  third  day,  and  the  weather  being  cold  and 
inclement  I  was  indisposed  for  several  days  after,  which  prevented 
my  attending  our  meeting  on  fifth  day ;  a  circumstance  which 
very  seldom  happens,  as  1  am  generally  preserved  in  the  enjoy- 
ment of  such  a  state  of  health,  as  to  attend  meetings  when  at 


288 


JOURNAL  OF 


home  without  mucli  omission  :  and  which  I  consider  as  one 
among  many  especial  blessings  and  favours,  dispensed  by  a  kind 
and  beneficent  Providence  to  me,  a  poor  unworthy  creature. 

First  day,  the  8th.  I  left  home  this  morning  and  rode  to  New- 
York,  and  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Pearl-street  in  the  after- 
noon, in  which  1  had  to  sutler,  being  dipped  into  a  state  of  death. 
I  felt  as  though  baptized  for  the  dead,  but  as  I  patiently  endured 
I  was  helped  towards  the  close  to  spread  my  exercise  before  the 
meeting,  and  a  degree  of  life  was  felt  to  arise,  and  some  were 
quickened,  but  with  too  many  there  appeared  to  be  a  great  want 
of  a  right  inward  engagement  and  travail  of  spirit,  and  these 
were  sent  empty  away. 

I  tarried  in  town  until  fourth  day,  it  being  the  time  of  our 
meeting  for  suderiugs.  In  the  course  of  this  meeting,  we  pre- 
pared a  memorial  to  lay  before  the  legislatiue  of  our  state,  on 
behalf  of  the  black  people  still  held  in  bondage  among  us.  A 
committee  was  separated  to  attend  therewith,  and  we  have  a  hope 
that  it  may  prove  effectual  for  their  relief. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  preparative  meeting,  and  had  to 
spread  before  my  Friends  the  exercise  of  my  mind,  on  account 
of  the  neglect  of  too  many  among  us  in  respect  to  the  due  obser- 
vance of  discipline ;  which  is  a  source  of  great  weakness  to  society, 
and  especially  so  to  those  who  are  delinquent. 

Sixth  and  seventh  days.  Spent  in  my  usual  vocations,  ac- 
companied with  quietness  and  j)eace  of  mind. 

First  day,  the  15th.  Almost  as  soon  as  I  had  taken  my  seat 
in  our  meeting  to  day,  there  was  brought  to  my  remembrance 
the  foUowmg  exhortation  of  the  apostle,  accompanied  with  a 
degree  of  hfe  :  "  To  do  good,  and  to  communicate,  forget  not."' 
As  I  quietly  attended  to  the  impression,  it  led  to  communication 
and  opened  to  a  field  of  doctrine,  tending  to  show  the  indispensable 
obUgation  every  real  Christian  lies  under,  let  his  allotment  in  the 
Church  or  in  the  world  at  large  be  what  it  may,  to  comply 
therewith,  it  being  a  divine  requisition.  It  is  therefore  reasona- 
ble to  suppose  that  by  a  life  of  steady  and  uniform  industry,  and 
from  which  man  derives  great  earthly  felicity,  and  through  the 
divine  blessing,  most  uidividuals  wpiild  be  enabled  to  fulfil  the 


ELIAS  HICKS. 

obligation  ;  by  which  means  all  the  misery  and  distress  that  aiise 
from  poverty  and  want  would  be  done  away  fiom  the  Church  of 
Christ,  and  agreeably  to  the  prophecy  of  Isaiah,  no  wasting  or 
destruction  be  found  within  her  borders ;  and  Christians  would 
witness  in  their  owm  experience,  that  it  is  more  blessed  to  give 
than  to  receive ;  as  we  should  thereby  approach  nearer  to  our 
divine  original,  from  whom  we  receive  every  blessing  both  spirit- 
ual and  temporal. 

The  following  part  of  the  week  I  spent  in  my  usual  occupa- 
tions, except  attending,  our  monthly  meeting  on  fifth  day. 

First  day,  the  22d.  This  day  I  attended  the  funeral  of  my 
brother  Stephen  Hicks  at  Rockaway.  There  was  a  pretty  large 
collection  of  people  on  the  occasion,  among  whom  I  was  led  to 
labour  fervently  in  the  gospel,  and  largely  to  declare  of  the  things 
concerning  the  kingdom  of  God.  The  season  was  solemn,  and 
by  the  prevalence  of  the  divine  power  that  attended,  many  hearts 
were  contrited  and  a  precious  solemnity  was  spread  over  the 
asisembly,  worthy  of  our  deepest  gratitude  and  thankfulness  of 
heart.    I  returned  home  that  evening  with  sweet  peace  of  mind. 

Having  for  some  time  felt  a  draft  on  my  mind  to  appoint  a 
few  meetings  in  some  adjacent  neighbourhoods,  to  the  south  and 
east  of  us,  I  left  home  on  the  seventh  day  of  this  week,  accompa- 
nied by  my  neighbour  Jacob  Willits,  jr.  We  rode  that  afternoon 
to  our  friend  James  Rushmore's,  at  the  Half-way  Hollow  Hills  ; 
whcie,  by  previous  notice,  we  had  a  comfortable  satisfactory 
meeting  in  the  evening,  mostly  made  up  of  those  not  in  member- 
ship with  us.  The  next  day,  the  first  of  the  week,  we  had  two 
meetings  ;  one  in  the  town  of  Islip  in  the  morning,  at  the  resi- 
dence of  my  son-in-law  Joshua  Willits,  the  other  at  the  third 
hour  in  the  afternoon,  in  the  school-house  at  the  village  of  Baby- 
lon. These  were  very  solemn  afliecting  meetings,  wherein  many 
truths  of  the  gospel  were  largely  and  livingly  opened,  in  the 
demonstration  of  the  spirit,  attended  with  a  power  that  humbled 
and  contrited  many  hearts,  and  brought  a  general  solemnity  over 
the  meetings. 

The  next  day  we  rode  to  our  friend  Thomas  Whitson's,  on 
the  south  side  of  our  township.    Had  an  appointed  meeting  there 


290 


JOURNAL  OP 


that  evening,  which  was  also  favoured  with  attendant  gospel 
power  ;  whereby  my  mind  was  opened  and  led  to  sound  forth  an 
arousing  testimony,  ui  order  to  stii'  up  many  present,  who,  for 
want  of  faithfulness  and  obedience  to  manifested  duty,  were 
much  behind  in  their  day's  work :  and  which,  as  it  opened  on  my 
mind,  I  expressed  to  them  to  be  not  only  a  cause  of  gieat  loss 
and  disadvantage  in  a  religious  sense  to  themselves,  but  also  to 
their  families  and  their  lender  offspring.  Things  were  laid  close 
home  to  these,  and  they  excited  to  more  faithfulness  and  religious 
engagement. 

At  this  place  I  was  informed  of  the  death  of  our  Friend  and 
neighbour  Elizabeth  Jones,  wife  of  Samuel  Jones,  whose  funeral 
was  to  be  the  next  day.  This  information  induced  us  to  return 
home  early  in  the  morning  in  order  to  attend  the  same.  As  she 
had  many  connexions,  there  was  a  very  large  collection  of  people 
on  the  occasion,  many  of  whom  were  of  divers  persuasions.  My 
heart  and  mouth  were  opened  to  preach  the  gospel  among  them, 
and  to  explain  to  the  people  the  principles  of  the  Christian  reh- 
gioo,  in  a  full  and  clear  manner,  in  the  authority  of  truth.  It 
was  a  highly  favoured  season,  in  which  truth  reigned  triumph- 
ant ;  and  the  Lord's  name  and  power  were  praised  and  exalted 
over  all. 

Fifth  day,  the  2d  of  1st  month,  1817.  I  attended  our  meet- 
ing as  usual.  It  was  quiet  and  comfortable.  Near  the  close  I 
had  a  short  testimony  to  communicate,  to  the  excellency  and 
exalted  privileges  of  the  Christian  state,  which  brought  a  precious 
covering  over  the  meeeting. 

First  day,  the  5th.  Very  soon  after  I  took  my  seat  in  meeting 
to-day,  my  mind  was  brought  into  a  feeling  sense  and  view  of 
the  superiour  excellency  of  the  true  Christian  religion  ;  and  this 
can  only  be  known  and  possessed  by  a  full  and  entire  subjuga- 
tion of  our  wills  to  the  divine  will,  and  li\nng  in  the  practical 
part  of  that  leasonable  injunction  of  our  blessed  Lord,  to  seek 
first  the  kingdom  of  God  and  his  righteousness  ;  then  every 
other  blessing  that  is  needful  and  comfortable  for  us  will  be 
added,  in  the  openings  of  the  divine  counsel.  But  alas,  how  few 
there  are  who  pay  any  right  attention  to  this  excellent  requisition. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


291 


but  on  the  contrary  go  on  in  their  own  wills,  and  in  the  prosecu- 
tion of  their  own  schemes  of  profit  and  pleasure,  most  generally 
at  least  until  they  marry,  and  settle  themselves  in  the  care  and 
concerns  of  a  family.    In  all  this  time,  scarcely  one  in  ten  thou- 
sand of  the  human  family  even  think  of  seeking  first  the  king- 
dom of  God  and  his  righteousness,  or  even  asking  counsel  of 
him  in  the  weighty  concern  of  maiTiage  ;  upon  a  right  procedure 
in  which,  their  present  and  future  happiness  greatly  depend,  and 
for  want  of  this  previous  care,  they  are  often  very  unequally  yoked 
together  ;  and  when  these  have  a  family  of  children  about  them, 
without  any  right  ability  and  qualification  to  instruct  them,  con- 
fusion and  disorder  ensue ;  and  the  poor  children  are  left  to  grow 
up  without  right  cultivation,  as  brambles  in  the  wilderness,  a 
lamentable  case  inileed  :  a  view  of  which  has  often  clothed  my 
mind  with  mourning.    I  was  led  largely  to  open  these  sub- 
jects to  the  meeting  under  the  influence  of  gospel  love,  and 
found  peace  in  my  labour,  the  sure  reward  of  faithfulness  to 
manifested  duty  ;  and  whether  the  people  will  hear  or  forbear,  it 
is  not  the  business  of  the  instrument  to  be  careful  about,  as  the 
word  that  goeth  fortli  will  not  retin  n  void,  but  will  accomplish  the 
thing  whereto  it  is  sent ;  either  to  instruct  and  comfort,  or  to 
reprove  and  condemn. 

The  rest  of  the  week  I  was  mostly  employed  in  my  temporal 
concerns,  except  attending  our  preparative  meeting  on  fifth  day. 
The  meeting  for  worship  Avas,  I  think,  a  favoured  season. 
First  day  the  12th.    A  silent  mooting  to-day. 
Fourth  day.    Feeling  niy  mind  drawn  to  attend  the  monthly 
meeting  of  Westbury,  which  was  held  to-day,  I  i)rocoode(l  accord- 
ingly.   In  the  meeting  for  worship,  I  was  led  to  show  to  Friends, 
und(u-  the  similitude  of  Israel's  travel,  that  it  was  not  enough  to 
be  delivered  from  our  former  sins,  nor  from  the  red  sea  of  trials 
and  obstructing  temptations,  so  as  to  rejoice  on  the  banks  of  deli- 
verance, and  be  fed  with  heavenly  manna,  even  angels'  foixl ;  nor 
to  journey  on  towards  the  promised  Canaan,  as  far  as  Korah  and 
his  company ;  and  to  see  like  them,  the  wonder-working  power 
of  Jehovah  in  the  wilderness,  unless  they  also  came  to  witness  a 
complete  death  to  their  own  wills,  so  as  to  be  entirely  submis 


292 


JOURNAL  OP 


sive  to  the  will  of  our  heavenly  Father  ;  for  othemise  they  would 
be  left  to  encompass  as  it  were,  a  mountain  in  the  wilderness,  until 
the  old  man,  that  is,  self-will,  is  entirely  worn  out  and  dies  there, 
on  this  side  Jordan  :  for  nothing  short  of  that  will  open  Jordan's 
streams,  and  enable  us  to  go  through  on  dry  land.  I  had  largely 
to  open  to  Friends  the  mystery  of  our  redemption,  in  the  demon- 
stration of  the  spirit,  showing  the  necessity  of  continual  perseve- 
rance and  making  progress  in  our  heavenly  journey,  otherwise 
we  shall  be  liable  to  fall  into  a  state  of  ease  and  carnal  security ; 
and  thereby  make  shipwreck  of  faith  and  a  good  conscience,  and 
our  latter  end  be  worse  than  the  beginning  ;  like  those  of  Israel, 
who  fell  in  the  wilderness  and  never  obtained  the  promised  land. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  monthly  meeting.  As  it  was  the 
time  of  answering  our  <|uories,  I  was  engaged  to  stir  np  Friends 
to  more  diligence,  by  faithfully  scrutinizing  their  own  individual 
states  through  the  medium  of  the  queries,  by  which  means  they 
would  he  truly  usefid  to  us ;  for  otherwise  the  reading  and  an- 
swering them  would  become  a  dead  lifeless  form. 

First  day,  the  19th.  A  silent  meeting  to-day,  in  which  my 
spirit  was  grieved,  as  is  too  often  the  case  in  our  meetings,  from 
a  sense  of  the  great  want  of  real  spiritual  life,  and  the  apparent 
deadness  and  formality  which  too  generally  prevail ;  whereby  it 
often  happens  that  a  number  appear  drowsy  and  nofHing,  and 
some  falling  asleep,  to  the  great  trouble  and  exercise  of  the  hving 
concerned  members,  who  are  often  led  to  moirni  in  secret  on  these 
accounts. 

In  the  course  of  this  week  I  attended  our  quarterly  meeting 
held  at  this  time  at  Westbury.  It  was  a  season  of  close  solemn 
searching,  and  through  the  animating  influerice  of  the  divine 
light  and  life,  the  hidden  things  of  Esau  or  the  first  nature,  were 
brought  to  light  and  judged.  Although  some,  who  had  long 
covered  themselves  as  with  thick  clay,  and  were  solacing  them- 
selves in  their  ceiled  houses,  kicked  like  Jeshurun  of  old,  when 
they  were  made  to  feel  the  piercing  edge  of  that  sword  which 
divides  between  soul  and  spirit,  joints  and  marrow,  and  is  a 
discerner  of  the  thoughts  and  intents  of  the  heart;  yet  the  truth 
had  its  Avay  over  all  their  opposition,  and  in  the  closing  meeting 


KLIAS  HICKS. 


293 


reigned  triumphant  over  all.  Blessed  be  the  Lord  for  his  un- 
speakable gifts  dispensed  to  his  faithful  children. 

First  day,  the  26th.  My  niiud  in  our  meeting  to-day,  was 
Jed  to  reflect  on  the  excellency  and  powerful  effect  of  true  faith. 
As  the  subject  opened,  I  found  it  my  place  to  spread  the  prospect 
before  the  meeting  ;  in  the  communication  whereof,  Ufe  sprang 
up  and  the  truth  was  raised  into  dominion  over  all,  and  my  heart 
was  made  thankful  for  the  unmerited  favour. 

The  rest  of  the  week  I  was  busily  employed  in  my  domestic 
affairs,  and  in  taking  the  oversight  and  care  of  my  stock ;  the 
weather  being-  very  cold  and  fiosty,  and  the  earth  covered  with 
snow.  Attended  our  meeting  on  fifth  day,  at  which  there  was 
a  fimeral  of  a  deceased  Friend,  an  ancient  maiden.  I  sat  the 
greater  part  of  the  meeting  in  silence,  in  which  time  there  were 
two  short  testimonies  delivered,  but  without  much  apparent 
effect,  as  the  seed-  of  immortal  life  was  \oo  much  pressed  down, 
as  a  cart  with  sheaves ;  and  nothing  is  sufficient  to  raise  a  meet- 
ing from  such  a  state  of  death  and  stujjor,  but  the  life-giving 
presence  and  powerful  word  of  Him,  who  raised  Lazarus  from 
the  grave.  As  I  patiently  endured  the  necessary  baptism  for  the 
dead,  towards  the  close  of  the  meeting  a  little  gleam  of  light 
appeared,  in  which  was  brought  to  my  remembrance  that  pas- 
sage of  the  wise  man,  that  "Righteousness  exalteth  a  nation." 
And  as  my  inward  eye  was  kept  to  the  opening,  it  spread,  and 
light  sprang  up,  in  which  I  felt  jthe  truth  of  that  saying,  that 
"  the  Lord's  people  are  willing  in  the  day  of  his  power ;"  and  as  I 
yielded  to  communication,  the  life  was  raised  into  dominion,  and 
ran  as  oil  over  all.  Surely  it  was  the  Lord's  doing  and  marvellous 
in  mine  eyes. 


294 


JOURNAL  OF 


CHAPTER  XIII. 

Engagements  at  and  near  home,  1817. — Visit  to  some  parts  of  the  yearly  meet- 
ings of  Phihulelphia  and  Baltimore,  1817. 

First  day,  the  2d  of  2d  month,  1817.  I  was  largely  led 
forth  ill  our  meeting  to-daj',  on  the  difl'erent  dispensations  com- 
municated to  man  hy  his  gracious  Creator,  in  order  for  his 
recovery  ont  of  the  fall,  and  pointing  out  to  the  people  the  differ- 
ence between  the  law  state  and  that  of  the  gospel :  showing  that 
the  former  was  a  mere  figure  or  prelude  to  the  latter,  and  that 
the  first,  with  all  its  elementary  rituals,  ceased  where  the  latter 
begun ;  the  first  only  affecting  the  body,  the  latter  principally 
the  sold  ;  the  first  only  the  shadow  of  good  things,  the  latter  the 
siil>stance  of  all  good  to  man  ;  by  which  he  is  altogether  redeemed 
from  sin  and  death,  as  he  submits  willingly  and  fully  to  the 
power  of  the  gospel,  and  is  thereby  prepared  for  an  inheritance  in 
eternal  hfe. 

In  the  course  of  this  week^  besides  giving  the  necessary  atten- 
tion to  my  temporal  affairs,  I  made  several  friendly  visits  to  the 
families  of  some  particular  friends,  in  company  with  my  wife 
and  daughter  Ehzabeth.  Although  I  met  with  some  occuiTences, 
one  in  particular,  which  produced  considerable  exercise  on  my 
mind,  yet  I  had  satisfaction  in  the  visits ;  beheving  that  wlien 
they  are  properly  made,  they  often  prove  mutually  comfortable 
and  encouraging.    Sat  our  meeting  on  fifth  day  in  silence. 

First  day,  the  9th.  Had  a  silent  meeting  to-day.  This  week 
afforded  occasion  of  deep  inward  exercise,  and  seasons  of  heart- 
searching,  in  a  view  of  the  manifest  declension  of  many  among 
us  from  that  honest  simplicity  and  faitlifulness  which  so  emi- 
nendy  characterized  our  worthy  predecessors,  as  also  the  increase 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


295 


of  vanity  and  immorality  among  the  people  without ;  and 
which  I  fear  may  have  been  increased  by  the  want  of  faithful- 
ness among  us,  in  the  right  and  full  support  of  our  Christian 
testimonies. 

First  day,  the  IGth.  Soon  after  I  took  my  seat  in  our  meet- 
ing to-day,  my  mind  was  quickened  and  led  into  a  sympathetic 
feeling  with  the  state  of  Elijah,  when  he  fled  from  the  wrath  and 
persecution  of  Ahab  and  Jezebel,  and  when  under  great  discou- 
ragement and  dismay  he  bemoaned  his  condition  ;  saying,  that 
they  had  pulled  down  the  Ijord's  altars,  slain  his  servants,  and 
he  only  was  left  and  they  sought  his  life  ;  but  the  Lord  told  him 
for  his  encouragement,  that  there  were  seven  thousand  yet  left  in 
Israel,  who  had  not  bowed  their  knee  to  the  image  of  Baal.  But 
these  no  doubt  were  so  scattered  and  dispersed  among  the  people, 
that  Elijah  could  scarcely  find  one  to  whom  he  might  open  his 
mind,  and  therefore  felt  himself  as  one  alone.  This  no  doubt  is 
the  lot  of  some  of  the  Lord's  most  faithful  servants  in  the  present 
day,  and  was  it  not  for  the  same  divine  help  and  succour  that 
Elijah  experienced,  some  of  these  at  times  would  be  altogether 
cast  down  and  discouragetl. 

The  subject  spread  nnd  enlarged,  and  opened  to  a  field  of  doc- 
trine; wherein  I  was  led  to  show  to  the  people  that  the  mystery 
of  iniquity  had  wrought  in  and  under  every  dispensation  of  God 
to  the  Church  through  its  varied  transformations,  and  always 
resembling  as  much  as  may  be,  an  angel  of  light ;  by  which  it 
lies  in  wait  to  deceive,  and  has  generally  deceived,  and  still  de- 
ceives, the  greater  part  of  the  people  of  all  the  nations  under 
heaven ;  setting  up  its  post  by  God's  post,  and  leading  its  votaries  to 
perform  their  worship  and  works  just  like  the  Lord's  servants,  with 
only  this  diflerence,  that  it  is  done  in  a  way  and  time  of  their  own 
heart's  devisihg*  But  the  Lord's  children  are  all  taught  of  the 
Lord,  and  they  are  made  to  know  it ;  for  in  righteousness  they 
are  established,  and  great  is  the  peace  of  these  children ;  and  there 
is  no  peace  to  the  wicked,  to  such  as  walk  in  their  own  wills,  and 
in  the  way  of  their  own  heart's  devising. 

On  fifth  day  of  this  week,  was  our  monthly  meeting,  at 
which  we  had  the  company  of  a  Friend  in  the  ministry  from 


296 


JOURNAL  OP 


one  of  our  upper  quarterly  meetings.  He  pieached  the  truth 
to  us  in  a  pretty  correct  manner;  but  I  thought  I  never  saw, 
with  greater  clearness  than  at  this  time,  that  ministers  might 
preach  the  literal  tnith,  and  yet  not  preach  the  real  gospel: 
and  herein  is  witnessed  the  truth  of  that  saying  of  the  apostle, 
that  "  the  letter,^''  however  true,  "  killeth "  but  the  spirit,"  and 
the  spirit  only,  "g-iveth  life.'^  And  it  is  a  great  thing  when 
ministers  keep  in  remembrance  that  necessary  caution  of  the 
divine  Master,  not  to  premeditate  what  they  shall  say  ;  but  care- 
fully to  wait  in  the  nothingness  and  emptiness  of  self,  that  what 
they  speak  may  be  only  what  the  Holy  Spirit  speaketli  in  them ; 
then  will  they  not  only  speak  the  truth,  but  the  truth,  accompa- 
nied with  power,  and  thereby  profit  the  hearers. 

First  day,  23d.  A  silent  meeting  to-day.  Nothing  transpired 
in  the  course  of  this  week,  which  required  particular  notice.  Sat 
our  meeting  on  fifth  day  in  silence. 

First  Aay,  the  2d  of  3d  month.  Having  felt  my  mind  for 
several  weeks  past  drawn  to  visit  Bethjiage  meeting,  I  rode 
thither  to-day  in  company  with  my  wife.  It  was  rather  a  low 
dull  time,  but  as  I  continued  in  the  patience,  a  small  prospect 
opened  on  the  excellency  of  justice,  and  the  right  bringing  up  of 
children.  It  led  to  a  communication  instructive  and  edifying,  for 
which  I  was  made  thankful. 

First  day,  the  9th.  This  day  as  I  sat  in  our  meeting,  my 
mind  was  led  to  view  the  exalted  and  precious  state  those  enjoyed, 
who  were  brought  by  their  faithfulness  to  witness  in  themselves 
the  fulfilment  of  the  first  and  great  commandment,  that  of  loving 
God  above  all ;  as  they  would  thereby  hkewise  know  tlie  fulfil- 
ment of  the  second,  that  of  loving  their  neighljour  as  themselves. 
As  the  subject  spread  on  my  mind  I  believed  it  right  to  express  it 
to  the  assembly,  which  brought  a  precious  solemnity  over  the 
meeting,  and,  I  trust,  it  was  an  instructive  season  to  some  present. 
;  This  week  principally  spent  in  the  care  of  my  temporal  con- 
cerns and  in  lending  assistance  to  the  needy,  and  in  the  course 
of  which  my  mind  was  often  attended  with  comforting  ejacula- 
tions after  this  manner.  "  The  liord  is  my  strength  and  my  song, 
the  hfter  up  of  rhine  head  and  my  salvation  ;  therefore  I  will  not 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


297 


fear  what  man  can  do  unto  nie.  He  leadeth  me  about  and 
instructeth  me,  and  preser\  etli  me  from  the  snare  of  the  fowler, 
and  from  tlie  strife  of  tongues." 

First  day,  the  16th.  Our  meeting  to-day  was  large  and  solenm, 
and  mostly  silent.  A  little  before  the  close,  an  exhortation  of 
the  apostle  Peter  was  brought  before  the  view  of  my  mind  :  "  Be 
sober,  be  vigilant ;  because  your  adversary  the  devil,  as  a  roaring 
lion,  walketh  about  seeking  whom  he  may  devour."  As  the 
subject  opened  I  found  it  my  duty  to  spread  it  before  the  meeting, 
with  some  observations  thereon,  tending  to  excite  the  people  to 
diligence,  inasmuch  as  there  could  be  no  doubt  of  the  truth  of 
the  apostle's  testijnony ;  hence  it  was  necessary  for  each  one  to 
keep  the  watch,  resisting  him  steadfast  in  the  faith.  The  com- 
munication though  short,  was  so  attended  with  the  quickening 
power  of  the  go.-<pel,  as  to  reach,  affect,  and  tender  many  minds, 
and  brought  a  solemn  awe  over  the  meeting.  Such  seasons  are 
worthy  of  gratefid  acknowledgments  to  the  blessed  Author  of  all 
our  rich  mercies. 

Spent  this  week  mostly  at  and  about  home,  enjoying  sweet 
peace  of  mind,  and  the  solace  of  heart-felt  thankfulness  to  the 
Shepherd  of  Israel  for  the  unmerited  favour.  Attended  the 
funeral  of  a  deceased  neighbour  on  fourth  day  and  our  montldy 
meeting  on  fifth  day.  The  funeral  was  largely  attended  by  the 
neighbouring  inhabitants,  among  whom  I  was  led  forth  vocally 
to  espouse  the  cause  of  the  gospel,  in  a  large  impressive  testimony. 
Many  hearts  were  humbled,  and  the  assembly  in  general  solem- 
nized ;  may  it  be  to  these  as  bread  cast  upon  the  waters,  gathered 
after  many  days. 

First  day,  the  23d.  Our  meeting  to-day  was  a  season  thank- 
fully to  be  remembered.  The  subject  that  arrested  my  mind 
and  led  to  communication,  was  a  comparative  view  of  man  with 
the  rest  of  the  animal  creation  ;  showing  tliat  man,  although 
endued  with  a  rational  understanding,  and  blessed  with  a  mea- 
sure and  manifestation  of  the  spirit  of  f!od,  to  guide  him  infallibly 
in  the  way  of  his  duty,  had  nevertheless  swerved  much  further 
from  the  state  of  rectitude  in  which  he  was  created,  than  any  other 
creature;  and  was  much  more  changeable  and  unstable  than 

38 


298 


JOURNAL  OP 


they.  This  is  a  sure  mark  of  his  fall :  and  although  contin- 
ually liable  and  willing  to  change,  to  gratify  his  own  will  and 
the  humour  of  others,  in  following  the  changeable  customs  and 
manners  of  a  vain  world;  yet  averse  to  that  necessaiy  and  lauda- 
ble change,  whereby  he  might  regain  paradise  and  renew  com- 
munion with  his  Maker.  This  and  much  more  I  was  led  to 
open  to  the  auditory,  in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  showing 
the  way  of  man's  return  ;  whereby  many  minds  present  Avere 
humbled  and  contrited,  and  soUd  satisfaction  and  comfort  afforded 
to  my  own. 

On  fourth  day,  I  attended  a  marriage  at  Bethpage.  It  was,  I 
think,  a  solid  instructive  season.  On  fifth  day  attended  our  own 
meeting  which  was  held  in  silence.  The  rest  of  the  week  I  was 
busily  attentive  to  my  usual  avocations. 

First  day,  the  30th.  I  attended  Westbury  meeting,  wherein 
my  mind  was  opened  into  a  view  of  man's  primitive  state,  the 
manner  and  means  of  his  fall,  and  the  way  whereby  he  only  can 
be  restored,  all  which  I  had  largely  to  spread  before  the  meeting. 
In  addition  to  this,  I  had  also  to  caution  Friends,  particularly  the 
youth,  against  letting  their  minds  out  in  their  own  will  and  wis- 
dom, into  a  search  and  pursuit  after  forbidden  knowledge,  par- 
ticularly that  of  the  origin  of  evil,  which  in  the  present  day  is  a 
subject  of  much  conversation  and  inquiry.  For  man  in  the 
beginning  was  forbidden  the  knowledge  of  good  and  evil,  and  that 
command  is  as  binding  and  obligatory  in  the  present  day  as  it 
was  in  the  primitive  state ;  therefore  all  those  Avho  presume  in 
their  own  wills  and  creaturely  wisdom,  independent  of  the  teach- 
ing of  the  spirit  of  God,  to  know  good  and  evil,  do  thereby  desert 
God,  and  so  become  dead  to  the  divine  life;  and  this  is  man's  fall, 
and  leads  to  Deism  and  Atheism. 

I  was  much  engaged  in  the  course  of  this  week  in  endeavour- 
ing to  arrange  and  settle  some  difficulties  in  the  neighbourhood, 
and  in  regulating  some  of  my  own  temporal  affairs.  Sat  our 
meeting  on  fifth  day  in  silence. 

First  day,  the  6th  of  4th  month.  Sat  our  meeting  to-day  in 
silence.  In  the  afternoon  at  the  fourth  hour,  we  had  a  meeting 
appointed  by  a  Friend  from  abroad,  who  was  accompanied  by 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


299 


another  Friend  in  the  ministry,  both  of  whom  appeared  in  pubhc 
testimony. 

Most  of  this  week  I  was  occupied  about  home.  Attended  our 
preparative  meeting  on  fifth  day,  which  being  tlie  time  of  an- 
swering our  queries  to  go  forward  to  the  yearly  meeting,  1  was 
led  to  make  several  remarks  to  Friends  to  stir  them  up  to  more 
faithftUness,  in  order  that  we  might  profit  by  the  queries,  and 
be  prepared  to  answer  them  with  more  clearness  and  propriety, 
according  to  truth  and  justice. 

First  day,  the  13th.  Sat  our  meeting  to-day  in  silence.  This 
week  our  monthly  meeting  was  held,  at  which  the  state  of  society 
as  represented  by  the  answers  to  the  queries  from  our  preparative 
meetings  was  attended  to,  and  a  summary  thereof  forwarded  to 
the  quarterly  meeting  to  be  held  the  following  week.  This  order 
of  reading  and  answering  the  queries  quarterly,  if  rightly  attended 
to,  and  Friends  were  generally  kept  lively  in  spirit,  and  were 
zealously  engaged  for  the  promotion  of  truth,  would,  I  believe,  be 
productive  of  much  good  to  the  society  :  but  alas !  there  are  so 
many  who  seem  lulled  asleep  in  tlio  lap  of  the  world,  and  their 
minds  clothed  with  so  much  indifferency,  that  it  is  to  them  but  a 
dead  hfeless  form.  Surely  these  reap  little  or  no  advantage  from 
their  right  of  membership  among  us. 

Sixth  day.  Was  om-  preparative  meeting  of  Ministers  and 
Elders,  in  which  nothing  transpired  worthy  of  notice. 

First  day,  the  20th.  Our  meeting  to-day,  as  well  as  at  some 
former  times,  has  been  rather  heavy  and  dull.  In  the  course  of 
this  week  I  attended  our  quarterly  meeting,  held  at  this  time  at 
New- York.  It  was  in  general  rather  a  low  time,  although  not 
without  some  manifestations  of  divine  favour  :  therefore  we  had 
no  cause  for  murmuring  but  rather  of  rejoicing,  in  that  we  were 
not  cast  off  and  forgotten. 

First  day,  the  27th.  Sat  our  meeting  again  in  silence.  My 
present  allotment  is  to  be  mostly  at  home,  generally  engaged  in 
temporal  concerns  for  mj'self  and  others.  But,  I  trust,  instead 
of  increasing  my  love  to  the  world  and  the  tilings  of  it,  I  am  fast 
weaning  from  it,  and  my  love  continually  increasing  and  strength- 
ening to  higher  and  better  objects ;  as  my  attention  to  the  world 


300 


JOURNAL  OP 


and  its  cares  arises  from  necessity  and  duty,  and  not  from  love, 
except  that  I  love  to  do  my  duty  in  all  respects  to  God  my  Crea- 
tor, and  man  my  fellow  creature,  believing  that  there  is  no  real 
Christianity  without  it. 

Our  fifth  day  meeting  was  quiet  and  solemn,  Avherein  I  had  to 
remind  Friends  that  it  was  not  enough  to  say  with  Peter,  when 
queried  of  by  his  Master  whether  he  loved  him,  "  yea  Lord,"  for 
this  is  no  more  than  every  professor  is  ready  to  say,  although 
they  may  be  quite  void  of  any  true  sense  thereof;  but  we  must 
come  to  know  him  and  love  him  in  such  manner,  as  when 
lirought  to  a  full  trial  of  our  faith  and  love,  we  can  say  as  Peter 
did  in  his  third  answer :  "  Lord  thou  knowest  all  things,  thou 
kuowest  that  I  love  thee."  For  this  is  the  situatio*  of  mind 
which  prepares  to  be  at  his  disposal,  and  to  endure  hardness  for 
his  sake  in  the  Christian  warfare. 

First  day,  the  4th  of  5th  mouth.  My  mind  was  led  into  an 
interesting  view  and  reflection  on  the  following  gracious  invita- 
tion of  our  TiOrd  :  "Come  unto  me,  all  ye  that  labour  and  are 
heavy  laden,  and  I  will  give  yuw  rest.  Take  my  yoke  upon 
you,  and  learn  of  me  :  for  I  am  meek  and  lowly  in  heart,  and  ye 
sliaU  find  rest  unto  your  souls."'  As  the  subject  spread  on  my 
mind  attended  with  a  degree  of  life,  I  was  constrained  to  com- 
municate the  prospect,  showing  tliat  Christ's  yoke  was  nothing 
less  nor  more  than  the  revealed  will  of  his,  and  our,  heavenly 
Father  ;  which,  as  it  is  faithfully  submitted  to,  yokes  down  and 
keeps  in  subjection  every  desire  and  propensity  of  the  human 
mind  which  stands  in  opposition  thereto.  So  that  the  creature 
hereby  knows  God's  kiugdom  to  be  come,  and  his  will  to  be  done, 
in  earth  as  it  is  done  in  heaven  ;  and  the  reward  of  rest  and 
peace  promised  in  the  closing  part  of  the  invitation  is  experienced. 

The  following  part  of  this  week  spent  principally  in  my  usual 
vocations,  except  attending  our  preparative  meeting  on  fifth  day; 
and  at  the  third  hoin-  in  the  afternoon,  the  funeral  of  our  Friend 
Joshua  Powell  of  Westbury,  who  was  taken  from  us  after  a  short 
illness,  by  a  sudden  inflammation  and  mortification  in  one  of  his 
arms.  How  tnie  is  ihat  saying  of  the  prophet:  "All  flesh  is 
grass,  and  all  the  goodliness  thereof  is  as  the  flower  of  the  field ; 


ELI  AS  HICKS. 


301 


the  grass  withereth,  the  flower  fadeth  ;"  just  such  is  man,  ahve 
to-day,  to  morrow  is  dead.  Tiiis  subject  very  sensibly  impressed 
my  mind  at  the  funeral,  and  led  to  an  awkening  communication, 
which  had  a  very  reaching  effect  on  the  assembly.  I  hope  the 
word  that  went  forth  will  not  return  void,  but  prove  a  blessing  to 
some  who  were  present. 

First  day,  the  11th.  Our  meeting  to-day  was  a  trying  sea- 
son, but  httle  felt  of  the  real  virtue  and  life  of  rehgion.  It  seemed 
as  though  we  were  in  a  worse  condition  than  the  multitude  for- 
merly ;  for  there  was  a  lad  found  among  them  with  five  barley 
loaves  and  a  few  fishes,  which  served  for  the  blessing  to  operate 
ujx)n  and  enlarge,  so  as  to  suffice  the  multitude  and  leave  frag- 
ments remaining;  but  we  were  almost,  or  altogether  destitute  of 
any  thing  for  the  blessing  of  iieaven  to  act  upon.  Therefore  we 
ought  not  to  murmur,  althougli  we  were  sent  empty  away. 

Except  attending  our  monthly  meeting  on  fifth  day,  and 
assisting  some  of  my  neighbours  to  settle  their  business  in  which 
a  dispute  had  arisen,  I  was  principally  occupied  in  my  temporal 
concerns  through  the  week. 

First  day,  the  18th.  A  silent  meeting  to-day.  The  rest  of 
this  week  busily  employed  preparatory  to  leaving  home  to  attend 
our  aproaching  yearly  meeting.  Left  home  early  on  seventh 
day  morning,  and  got  into  the  city  seasonably  to  attend  the 
opening  of  the  yearly  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders  at  the 
tenth  hour.  On  second  day  at  the  s&me  hour,  the  meeting  for 
discipline  opened,  and  continued  by  adjournments  until  the  sev- 
enth day  following.  In  tlie  forenoon  of  that  day  at  about  eleven 
o'clock  it  closed,  under  a  comfortable  evidence  that  the  divine 
presence  presided ;  and  which,  with  thankfulness  and  gratitude  we 
have  humbly  to  acknowledge,  has,  in  gracious  condescension, 
been  vouchsafed  to  us  in  the  several  sittings  of  our  large  solemn 
assembly,  in  as  great,  if  not  greater  degree,  than  has  been  wit- 
nessed in  any  previous  season  :  tending  to  unite  all  the  rightly 
concerned  members  in  a  living  travail,  for  the  promotion  of  the 
cause  of  truth  and  righteousness,  and  the  spreading  and  exalta- 
tion of  those  precious  testimonies  given  us  as  a  people  to  bear  for 
Jhe  Prince  of  Peace. 


302 


JOURNAL  OP 


First  day,  the  1st  of  6th  month.  Attended  our  own  meet- 
ing to-day  in  hiimbhng  silence.  Spent  the  week  at  and  about 
home,  except  attending  the  funeral  of  our  ancient  Friend  Isaac 
Underhill  of  Flushing,  on  sixth  day ;  on  which  occasion  a 
meeting  was  held  in  Friends'  meeting-house  at  that  place.  It 
was  a  very  solemn,  and,  I  trust,  a  profitable  season  to  some 
present.  My  mouth  was  opened  among  them  to  testify  of  the 
things  concerning  the  kingdom  of  God,  in  a  large  affecting  testi- 
mony, whereby  many  hearts  were  contrited  and  made  humbly 
thankful  for  the  present  favour,  and  I  was  glad  in  believing  that 
the  Lord  is  still  mindful  of  his  people,  and  is  graciously  disposed 
to  strengthen  and  support  them  in  the  needful  time  ;  as  their  eye 
is  kept  single  to  him,  looking  to  him  only  for  help  and  salvation. 

First  day,  the  8th.  Had  a  comfortable  meeting  to-day.  The 
testimony  to  the  power  of  truth  went  forth  freely  to  the  people, 
comforting  and  contriting  many  minds  present.  This  is  the 
Lord's  doing  and  is  worthy  of  grateful  acknowledgments  from  his 
people,  for  such  continued  yet  unmerited  mercy. 

On  third  day  I  attended  a  meeting  at  Bethpage,  appointed  by 
our  friends  Elizabeth  Coggeshall  and  Ann  Shipley  of  New- York, 
who  were  now  among  us  on  a  religious  visit.  It  was,  I  think,  a 
season  of  great  favour ;  not  only  the  two  women  appeared  in 
seasonable  and  appropriate  testimonies,  tending  to  gather  the 
minds  of  the  people  into  a  very  comfortable  solemnity,  but  also, 
my  heart  and  mouth  were'  opened  in  a  large  affecting  testimony, 
which  found  a  ready  entrance  into  the  minds  of  most  present, 
breaking  down  all  opposition  and  contriting  many  hearts  by  the 
prevalence  of  truth,  which  ran  as  oil  over  all.  After  this,  our 
friend  Elizabeth  closed  the  service  in  solemn  supplication.  It  was 
a  day  of  favour,  worthy  of  grateful  remembrance. 

On  fifth  day  I  attended  our  preparative  meeting,  in  which  I 
had  some  sei  vice  for  the  promotion  of  truth's  cause.  The  four 
other  days  of  this  week,  I  spent  in  my  usual  necessary  avocations. 

First  day,  the  15th.  Nothing  in  particular  to  remark  respecting 
the  exercise  of  this  day. 

On  the  fourth  day  of  this  week,  our  monthly  meeting  was  held, 
in  which  I  was  led  into  some  close  searching  exercise,  in  order  ' 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


303 


to  stir  up  Friends  to  more  diligence  and  circumspection,  that  so 
their  light  might  shine  forth  to  the  help  of  others,  and  their  con- 
duct appear  consonant  with  their  profession.  In  this  meeting  1 
found  it  expedient  and  consistent  with  my  duty,  to  open  to  Friends 
a  prospect  and  concern  which  had  for  a  considerable  time  rested 
on  my  mind,  to  pay  a  visit  in  gospel  love,  to  Friends  and  others 
in  some  parts  of  the  yearly  meetings  of  Philadelphia  and  Balti- 
more. The  subject  obtained  the  solid  attention  of  the  meeting, 
and  some  Friends  were  appointed  to  confer  with  me  on  the  sub- 
ject, and,  as  way  opened,  prepare  an  essay  of  a  certificate  for  that 
purpose,  and  produce  it  to  our  next  meeting. 

First  day,  the  22d.  Whilst  sitting  in  our  meeting  to-day,  my 
mind  was  led  into  a  view  of  the  great  and  singular  advantages 
that  would  accrue  to  tbe  children  of  men,  from  their  having  right 
and  just  ideas  of  religion,  the  want  of  which  was  the  principal 
cause  of  all  the  distress  and  misery  that  fell  to  their  lot,  both  here 
and  hereafter.  The  subject  spread,  and,  as  I  communicated, 
opened  to  a  large  field  of  doctrine,  which  had  a  very  reaching 
eflfect  upon  the  assembly,  and  a  very  precious  solemnity  was 
spread  over  the  meeting;  for  which  my  heart  was  made  tixdy 
glad,  with  that  gladness  that  hath  no  sorrow  with  it. 

The  rest  of  the  week  I  was  busily  employed  in  the  care  of  my 
temporal  concerns,  which  nevertheless  has  no  tendency,  if  kept 
within  right  bounds,  to  prevent  internal  religious  exercises,  and 
spiritual  meditations  and  soliloquies.  Sat  oiu'  fifth  day  meeting  in 
silence. 

First  day,  the  29th.  I  sat  our  meeting  to-day  in  a  sense  of 
great  weakness,  in  which  I  realized  the  truth  of  David's  testi- 
mony :  "  Verily  every  man  at  his  best  estate  is  altogether 
vanity." 

I  Except  attending  in  silent  meditation  our  fifth  day  meeting, 
and  the  funeral  of  the  only  daughter  of  my  brother  Samuel,  on 
seventh  day,  I  was  engaged  as  usual  during  the  week,  in  my 
family  cares ;  which  indeed  is  an  arduous  task,  if  rightly  per- 
formed, and  every  department  duly  cared  for  in  its  right  season, 
consistent  with  our  moral  and  religious  duty.  The  funeral  men- 
tioned above  was  a  solemn  one,  in  which  I  was  largely  led  forth 


304  JOURNAL  OP 

to  testify  of  the  things  concerning  the  kingdom  of  CSrod  ;  q)ening 
the  way  of  life  and  salvation  to  the  people,  in  tlie  demonsi  ration 
of  the  spirit.  The  assembly  were  generally  solemnized  by  the 
efficacy  of  the  power  which  attended,  and  truth  raised  into  victory 
over  all.  Such  favours  are  truly  worthy  of  deep  heart-felt  grati- 
tude and  thankscnvintr  to  the  God  and  Father  of  all  our  sine 
mercies,  who  is  over  all,  worthy  for  ever. 

First  day,  the  Gth  of  7th  month.  Soon  after  I  took  my 
seat  in  our  meeting  to-day,  my  mind  was  opened  into  a  view  of 
the  great  need  man  stands  in  of  a  Saviour,  and  that  nothing  can 
give  him  so  full  and  lively  a  sense  thereof,  as  a  true  sight  and 
sense  of  his  own  real  condition  ;  by  which  he  is  not  only  brought 
to  see  the  real  want  of  a  Saviour,  but  is  also  shown  thereby,  what 
kind  of  a  Saviour  he  needs.  For  it  must  not  only  be  one,  who 
is  continually  present,  lint  who  is  possessed  of  a  prescience  suffi- 
cient to  see,  at  all  times,  all  man's  enemies,  and  every  temptation 
that  may  or  can  await  him  ;  and  have  power  sufficient  to  defend 
him  from  all,  and  at  all  times.  Therefore,  such  a  Saviour  as 
man  wants,  cannot  be  one  without  him,  but  must  be  one  that  is 
always  present,  just  in  the  very  place  man's  enemies  assault  him, 
which  is  within,  in  the  very  temple  of  the  heart :  as  no  other 
Saviour  but  such  an  one,  who  takes  his  residence  in  the  very 
centre  of  the  soul  of  man,  can  possibly  produce  salvation  to  him: 
hence,  for  man  to  look  for  a  Saviour  or  salvation  any  where 
else,  than  in  the  very  centre  of  his  own  soul,  is  a  fatal  mistake, 
and  must  consequently  land  him  in  disappointment  and  errour. 

I  was  led  forth  to  connnunicate  largely  to  (he  people  on  the 
subject ;  and  on  tlie  blessed  ed'ects  that  do,  and  will  result  to  all 
those  who  find  such  a  Savioiu',  and  who,  in  humility  and  sin- 
cerity of  heart,  follow  him  faithfully  in  the  way  of  his  leadings. 
It  was  a  solemn  season,  and  a  day  tliankfully  to  be  remembered. 

I  was  taken  up  principally  the  rest  of  this  week,  except  attend- 
ing our  preparative  meeting  on  fifth  day,  in  my  hay  harvest.  It 
is  a  laborious  season  ;  and  is  made  mvich  more  so  by  reason  of 
there  being  so  few  faithful  labourers,  amono-  those  who  offer 
themselves,  as  such.  Most  of  them  are  more  anxiously  careful 
how  they  may  obtain  the  highest  wages,  than  to  be  engaged 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


305 


honestly  to  strive  justly  to  earn  them.  This  makes  the  care  and 
oversight  of  such  business  rather  irksome  and  unpleasant,  which 
otherwise  would  be  agreeable  and  often  delightful. 

Fii-st  day,  the  13th.  I  sat  our  meeting  in  silence.  This  week 
I  was  mostly  (aken  up  in  caring  for  and  assisting  in,  my  hay 
harvest.  For  by  the  fertility  of  the  season,  our  fields  have 
brought  forth  plenteously.  On  fifth  day  our  monthly  meeting 
was  held,  in  whicli  Friends  united  with  the  concern  I  had  laid 
before  them  at  the  preceding  monthly  meeting,  to  pay  a  visit  in 
gospel  love  to  Friends  and  others,  in  some  parts  of  the  yearly 
meetings  of  Philadelphia  and  Baltimore.  A  certificate  was  pre- 
pared for  the  piupose,  leaving  me  at  hberty  to  proceed  therein,  as 
way  should  open. 

First  day,  the  20th.  A  solemn,  and,  I  trust,  a  profitable  meet- 
ing to-day,  in  whicli  the  gospel  was  preached  freely  in  the  demon- 
stration of  truth,  and  a  precious  covering  was  felt  to  spread  over 
the  assembly ;  and  sweet  peace  clothetl  my  mind  at  the  conclu- 
sion. Surely  the  Lord  is  a  bountiful  and  rich  rewarder  of  all  his 
faithful  servants,  who  serve  him,  not  for  reward,  but  for  the  sake 
of  that  love  wherewith  he  loveth  them,  and  which  he  so  abun- 
dantly sheddeth  abroad  in  their  hearts,  that  they  are  thereby 
drawn  to  love  him  above  all ;  and  in  and  under  the  influence  of 
this  precious  love,  they  are  led  and  constrained  to  serve  and  wor- 
ship him  freely  for  his  own  sake,  because  he  is  worthy,  an^l  not 
for  any  reward  to  themselves,  because  they  are  altogether  un- 
worthy ;  and  because  that  precious  love  wherewith  he  hath  loved 
them,  and  with  which  he  hath  filled  their  hearts,  hath  banished 
and  dispelled  therefrom  every  germ  of  self-love,  and  all  kind  of 
selfishness.  Nevertheless,  of  his  own  rich  bounty  and  free  will, 
without  any  real  merit  on  our  part,  he  aljunilantly  and  plenteously 
bestoweth  his  blessings  upon  all  his  faithful  servants  and  children, 
whereby  their  love  to  him  is  continually  increased,  until  he 
becomes  their  all  in  all,  their  alpha  and  omega,  and  they  are 
brought  into  the  possession  of  that  perfect  love  that  casteth  out 
all  fear  ;  and  in  which  they  are  enabled  contimially  to  worship 
and  adore  Him  who  liveth  for  ever,  and  who  only  is  everlastingly 
worthy  of  all  blessing  and  praise. 

39 


306 


JOURNAL  OP 


In  the  course  of  this  week  was  our  quarteily  meeting,  which 
was  held  at  this  time  at  Westbury.  It  was  a  season  of  exercise 
to  all  who  were  concerned  for  the  promotion  of  right  order  in  the 
Church ;  and  much  counsel,  reproof,  and  admonition,  were  com- 
municated, under  right  influence,  to  stir  up  the  negligent  and 
refractory  members  to  more  faithfulness  and  attention  to  their 
several  duties,  and  a  more  full  submission  to  the  manifestations 
of  divine  grace  in  their  own  minds,  that  they  may  be  thereby 
strengthened  to  arise,  and  shake  themselves  from  the  dust  of  the 
earth,  and  separate  themselves  from  those  hindering  and  annoy- 
ing things,  which  divert  and  turn  them  aside  from  their  Christian 
duty,  and  those  things  in  which  their  best  interest  consists. 
The  meeting  for  worship  was  likewise  a  favoured  season.  Many 
very  important  truths  of  the  gospel  were  clearly  opened  in  the 
demonstration  of  the  spirit;  and  the  meeting  closed  under  a 
thankful  sense  of  the  unmerited  mercy ;  and  the  living  among 
us  separated  to  their  several  homes  with  grateful  hearts. 

I  laid  befoie  this  meeting  my  prospect  of  a  religious  visit  as 
aforementioned,  and  received  the  imity  and  concurrence  of  the 
men's  and  women's  meetings ;  and  an  endorsement  thereof  was 
made  on  my  certificate.  Being  now  left  at  liberty,  and  separated 
to  the  work  whereunto  I  believed  myself  called  by  the  Holy 
Spirit,  and  knowing  my  own  insufficiency,  and  that  of  myself  I 
can  do  nothing,  all  that  remains  for  me  is  to  cast  my  care 
wholly  on  him,  in  full  faith,  who  hath  called  me  ;  and,  as  I  abide 
in  the  patience  and  in  a  full  submissiori  to  his  heavenly  will,  he 
that  putteth  his  servants  forth,  will  in  his  own  right  time  go 
before  them  and  make  way  for  them,  without  which  there  is  no 
way  ;  and  will  make  darkness  light  before  them,  and  not  forsake, 
but  safely  carry  them  through  and  over  all  the  opposition  and 
discouragements,  that  either  men  or  devils  may  or  can  cast  in  the 
way,  to  the  exceeding  praise  of  his  grace,  and  to  the  glory  and 
exaltation  of  his  great  and  excellent  name,  who  is  over  all,  God 
blessed  for  ever. 

First  day,  the  27th.  My  mind  while  sitting  in  our  meeting 
to-day,  was  led  into  a  view  of  the  great  necessity  there  was  of 
more  faithflilnes  and  attention  to  the  inward  principle  of  divine 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


307 


truth,  or  inward  teacher  in  the  mind,  as  professed  hy  us  as  a  people. 
For  want  of  this,  many  were  led  into  divers  errours  and  defi- 
ciencies, which  in  their  tendency  not  only  led  to  great  weakness, 
but  to  the  encouragement  of  evil  doers  in  thek  evil  practices ;  a 
sight  and  sense  of  which  had  for  some  time  been  a  cause  of  much 
exercise  to  my  mind.  The  subject  became  very  impressive, 
insomuch  that  I  found  it  necessary  to  spread  it  before  the  meet- 
ing in  a  large  arousing  testimony;  laying  before  the  auditory  the 
great  danger  many  were  in  for  want  of  a  living  concern  to  work 
out,  through  the  assistance  of  divine  grace,  their  salvation  while 
the  day  of  visitation  was  lengthened  out..  For  nothing  short 
of  a  full  submission  to  the  operation  of  divine  tmth  on  their 
minds  could  fit  and  prepare  them  for  the  awful  approaching  sea- 
son, when  the  pale-faced  messenger  shall  arraign  us  before  the 
judgment  seat  of  Him,  whom  we  can  neither  awe  nor  bribe,  to 
give  an  account  of  the  deeds  done  in  the  body,  whether  good  or 
evil.  A  solemn  weight  spread  over  the  meeting  and  many  minds 
appeared  to  be  deeply  humbled.  May  the  exhortation  be  fixed 
in  their  remembrance,  as  a  nail  in  a  sure  place  that  may  not  be 
moved,  is  the  fervent  desire  of  my  mind. 

The  rest  of  this  week  I  was  busily  employed  in  endeavouring 
so  to  arrange  my  temporal  matters,  that  when  I  leave  home  on 
the  prospect  before  mc,  I  may  feel  my  mind  at  full  liberty  there- 
from, and  that  no  occasion  may  be  given,  through  the  medium 
of  any  of  my  temporal  engagements,  for  the  enemies  of  tnith  to 
gainsay  or  find  fault,  to  the  disadvantage  or  reproach  of  the  great 
and  dignified  cause  I  was  about  to  embark  in.  For  I  have  been 
led  to  believe  some  who  have  gone  out  on  this  solemn  embassy, 
for  want  of  this  care  have  given  too  much  occasion  for  censure, 
and  have  thereby  wounded  the  cause  they  have  proposed  to 
promote,  and  brought  much  exercise  on  the  minds  of  the 
faithful. 

On  fifth  day  at  our  meeting,  my  mind  was  deeply  bowed  in 
commemoration  of  the  Lord's  continued  mercies,  and  that  indeed 
it  might  be  said  of  us  as  it  was  of  Israel  formerly,  that  it  was  of 
the  Lord's  mercies  we  were  not  consumed  ;  and  I  was  made 
thankful  in  believing,  that  there  was  a  small  remnant  who  were 


308 


JOURNAL  OP 


preserved  faithful  to  his  name  and  cause,  and  who  were  the  salt 
of  the  society,  and  for  whose  sake  he  would  not  utterly  cast  us 
off  nor  forsake  us.  Surely  it  is  of  his  unmerited  mercy  that  we 
are  not  swallowed  up  in  the  mass  of  the  people,  and  numbered 
among  the  imstable  multitude  who  have  no  sure  and  solid 
foundation  to  rest  their  hopes  upon,  but  are  trusting  in  a  ceremo- 
nial religion,  of  man's  invention  ;  all  which  in  the  day  of  trial 
wUl  fail  them,  and  afford  no  succour  to  the  soul. 

First  day,  the  3d  of  8th  month.  My  mind  wa.s  brought  under 
exercise  in  our  meeting  to-day,  in  a  view  of  the  great  want  of 
diligent  attention  to  the  light  within,  or  that  measure  of  the  spirit 
given  to  every  one  of  God's  rational  creatures  to  profit  withal ; 
even  those  who  were  so  far  convinced  as  to  acknowledge  its 
excellence,  yet  were  almost  daily  neglecting  its  reproofs,  and  turn- 
ing aside  from  its  teachings ;  by  which  their  understandings  be- 
came darkened,  and  they  were  left  in  a  dwarfish  unstable  con- 
dition, without  any  solid  ground  of  hope.  The  subject  spread, 
and  my  mind  was  led  into  a  large  arousing  testimony,  setting 
forth  the  danger  of  such  a  state,  and  the  fatal  consequences  that 
would  naturally  and  certainly  follow  such  delinquency  if  con- 
tinued in.  Truth  prevailed,  and  many  minds  were  sensibly 
bowed  and  affected  by  its  power,  and  a  very  general  solemnity 
spread  over  the  meeting,  to  the  praise  of  Him  who  is  calling  all 
his  faithful  and  obedient  children  out  of  darkness  into  his  mar- 
vellous light.  The  fest  of  the  week  spent  as  usual  without 
occasion  for  any  remark. 

First  day,  the  10th.  A  peaceful  quiet  meeting  to-day  in  silent 
waiting.  The  rest  of  the  week,  except  attenduig  our  meeting 
for  sufferings  and  preparative  meeting  on  fifth  day,  was  taken  up 
in  my  outward  business ;  with  a  steady  view  to  my  religious 
engagement,  that  with  all  readiness  I  might  be  prepared  to  em- 
bark therein  when  the  full  time  arrived. 

First  day,  the  17th.  A  silent  meeting.  This  week  was  taken 
up  preparatory  to  my  journey.  Attended  our  monthly  meeting 
on  fifth  day,  and  feeling  my  mind  drawn  towards  an  opportunity 
with  the  people  of  colour  tefore  I  left  home,  I  mentioned  it  to 
the  meeting ;  and  with  the  unity  of  Friends,  a  meeting  was 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


309 


appointed  for  them  on  the  following  first  day  at  the  fourth  hour  in 
the  afternoon.  I  also  gave  Friends  of  Bethpage  meeting  informa- 
tion, that  I  felt  my  mind  drawn  to  sit  with  them  in  their 
meeting  the  next  first  day,  and  left  them  at  liberty  to  inform  their 
neighbours  thereof 

First  day,  the  24th.  Agreeably  to  my  prospect  I  attended 
Bethpage  meeting  in  the  forenoon.  It  was  large,  and  I  think, 
greatly  favoured  with  the  overshadowing  wing  of  divine  kind- 
ness. Truth  rose  into  dominion,  and  bowed  the  assembly  by 
the  prevalence  of  its  power,  for  which  my  spirit  was  made  deeply 
thankful. 

. .  The  meeting  for  the  coloured  people  was  held  at  the  fourth  hour, 
and  I  was  enabled  to  clear  my  mind  among  them,  although  it 
was  a  season  of  hard  labour.  After  this  I  felt  niy  mind  clear  to 
set  forward  on  my  intended  journey. 

Fourth  day,  the  27th  of  8lh  month.  I  left  home  in  the  after- 
noon in  order  to  accomplisli  my  contempilated  visit  to  Friends  and 
others,  in  some  parts  of  the  yearly  meetings  of  Philadelphia  and 
Baltimore.  My  son-in-law  Valentine  Hicks,  accompanied  me  in 
the  journey.  Feeling  my  mind  drawn  to  attend  the  meeting  of 
Friends  at  Flushing  the  next  day,  we  rode  there  and  lodged. 
Notice  being  given  in  the  neighbomhood  of  my  intention  to  be 
there,  the  meeting  was  large,  and  the  Ijord  graciously  mani- 
fested himself  to  be  near,  and  enabled  me  to  discharge  myself 
faithfully  among  them  under  the  feeling  influence  of  gospel  love. 
Many  hearts  were  contrited  and  truth  appeared  in  dominion  over 
all,  for  which  favour  I  was  made  reverently  thankfiU,  not  only  on 
my  own  account  and  the  account  of  those  present,  but  especially 
so  on  account  of  my  dear  family  and  friends  at  home,  who  gave 
ijae  up  with  great  reluctance  on  account  of  my  present  bodily 
indisposition,  being  under  the  pressure  of  a  heavy  cold  and  very 
hard  cough,  which,  in  their  apprehensions,  rendered  me  unable 
to  travel  in  so  arduous  a  service  until  I  might  be  recovered  there- 
from. But  the  time  appearing  to  be  come  for  my  setting  out,  and 
the  way  appearing  open,  1  considered  it  safest  to  cast  my  care 
wholly  upon  Him  in  faith,  who,  I  believed,  had  called  me  to  the 
work ;   and  that  as  J  continued  to  go  forward,  as  he  was 


310 


JOURNAI,  OP 


graciously  pleased  to  open  the  way  and  make  it  clear  before  me, 
all  would  be  well,  whether  it  terminated  in  life  or  in  death. 

The  next  day,  being  (he  sixth  of  the  week,  we  had  an  ap- 
pointed meeting  in  Friends'  meeting-house,  at  the  Kilns,  in 
Newtown.  The  meeting  there,  had  teen  discontinued  for  a 
number  of  years,  and  now  there  was  but  one  member  of  our 
society  left  in  the  neighbouriiood.  There  was,  however,  a  consi- 
derable number  of  people  of  other  persuasions  collected ;  and  the 
Lord  graciously  condescended  to  enable  me  to  preach  the  gospel 
among  them,  and  to  open  divers  doctrines  of  the  Christian  reli- 
gion, suited  to  their  several  conditions,  in  the  demonstration  of 
truth,  for  their  consideration  and  instruction.  The  people  were 
very  solemn  and  qiuet ;  and,  I  hope,  the  labour  will  not  prove  in 
vain,  l)ut  be  to  some  of  them,  as  bread  cast  upon  the  waters, 
gathered  after  many  day.s.  We  rode,  after  this  meeting,  to  New- 
York,  and  rested  on  seventh  day.   ■  /  .' 

First  day,  the  31st.  We  attended  Pearl-street  meeting  in  the 
morning,  and  that  at  Liberty-street,  in  the  afternoon.  They 
were  both  full  meetings ;  and,  although  I  was  still  under  consi- 
derable bodily  indisposition,  yet,  through  condescending  goodness, 
I  was  strengthened  to  discharge  myself  faithfully  in  both  oppor- 
tunities, and  felt  peace  in  my  labours  of  love  among  them  ;  being 
led  in  each  meeting  to  declare  largely  of  the  things  concerning  the 
kingdom  of  God,  and  to  point  out  to  the  people,  in  a  clear  man- 
ner, the  way  to  peace  and  salvation. 

On  second  day  afternoon,  we  proceeded  on  our  journey  to 
Newark,  a  town  in  New  Jersey,  where  we  attended  a  meeting  at 
the  fourth  hoiu",  pre\ious  notice  having  been  given  in  the  town, 
of  our  comitig.  I  had  had  several  meetings  there  before ;  but 
this  was  larger  than  usual  for  the  place.  There  is  no  member  of 
oin-  society  residing  in  the  town  ;  the  inhabitants  being  principally 
of  the  Presbyterian  order.  AU  was  quiet,  and  a  general  solem- 
nity spread  over  the  meeting  and  truth  and  its  testimony  were 
raised  into  dominion.  Surely,  it  is  the  Lord's  doing,  and  my  spirit 
was  made  gratefully  tliankfid  for  the  unmerited  favour. 

The  next  day  we  attended  a  meeting  appointed  for  us  in  Eliza- 
bethtown.    Here,  likewise,  there  is  no  member  of  our  society. 


ELIAS  HICKS, 


311 


The  meeting  was  small,  yet  through  condescending  goodness  it 
proved,  I  trust,  a  comfortable  instinctive  season  to  some  present ; 
and  I  parted  with  them  in  peace  of  mind,  the  sure  reward  of  faith- 
fulness. 

From  this  place,  we  rode  home  with  our  kind  friend  Henry 
Shotwell,  of  Rahway,  who  met  us  here.  The  next  day  we 
attended  Friend's  meeting  at  Plainfield.  Notice  having  been 
given  that  we  intended  to  be  there,  the  meeting  was  large,  in 
which  the  Lord's  power  was  manifested,  and  his  arm  made  bare 
for  our  help ;  and  through  which,  way  was  made  and  utterance 
given,  to  preach  the  glad  tidings  of  life  and  salvation  to  the  peo- 
ple, in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit.  Many  hearts  were  broken 
and  contrited  by  the  prevalence  of  its  power.  May  the  glory  and 
the  praise  be  all  ascribed  to  our  gracious  Helper,  for  such  con- 
tinued mercy ;  for  he  only  is  worthy  thereof,  as  nothing  is  due 
to  the  creature,  but  blushing  and  confusion  of  face. 

.  After  this  favoured  meeting,  we  rode  back,  towards  evening,  to 
Rahway.  The  next  day,  being  the  fifth  of  the  week,  we  attended 
Friends'  meeting  there.  The  meeting  was  much  enlarged  by 
many  of  the  neighbouring  inhabitants  coming  in,  who  were  not 
members.  Many  gospel  truths  were  opened  to  their  consideration, 
and  its  power  ran  as  oil  over  the  assembly,  silencing  all  opposition, 
and  a  perfect  calm  was  witnessed  to  spread  over  all.  I  have  not 
often  beheld  such  a  perfect  quiet;  such  seasons  are  truly  encou- 
raging, and  worthy  of  thanksgiving  and  praise  to  the  blessed  / 
Author  of  such  unmerited  favours. 

On  sixth  day  morning,  we  took  leave  of  our  kind  friends  at  Rah 
way,  and  rode  to  Mendham,  alias,  Randolph.  The  next  day 
had  an  appointed  meeting  there,  at  the  tenth  hour,  which  proved 
a  solemn,  instructive  season.  I  left  them  with  peace  of  mind  and 
proceeded  that  afternoon  to  Hardwick.  The  following  dav'jeing 
the  first  of  the  week,  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  therq  It  was 
large  for  the  place,  as  notice  had  been  given  that  we  ejected  to 
be  there.  And,  through  heavenly  help,  the  gospel  wa'  preached 
in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit ;  and,  by  tiie  inflv^nce  of  its 
power,  a  general  solemnity  was  spread  over  the  asembly,  and 
many  hearts  were  broken  and  contrited. 


/ 


312 


JOURNAL  OP 


On  second  day  we  proceeded  to  Stroudsburgh,  in  Pennsylva- 
nia, where  we  arrived  about  three  o'clock  in  the  afternoon.  Here 
we  had  a  meeting,  by  appointment,  the  next  day,  at  the  tliird 
hoin-.  It  was  well  attended  by  the  Friends  of  that  place,  and 
many  of  the  neighbouring  inhaliitants  ;  and  was  a  very  solid,  in- 
structive season.  Surely,  such  unmerited  favours  greatly  enhance 
our  obligations  to  our  all-gracious  Benefactor,  and  tend  to  inspire 
the  minds  of  his  humble  dependant  children  with  gratitude  and 
thanksgiving. 

From  this  place  we  proceeded  to  Richland,  and  attended 
Friends'  meeting  on  fifth  day.  It  was  much  enlarged  by  many 
who  were  not  members  coming  in.  From  thence  we  went  to 
Plumbstead,  where,  by  previous  appointment,  we  had  a  meeting 
the  next  day.  Both  these  meetings  were  seasons  of  favour. 
Surely,  it  is  cause  of  deep  humiliation,  when  we  consider  the 
many  sorrowful  deviations  which  are  obvious  among  us  from  the 
simplicity  and  purity  of  our  holy  profession,  and  the  great  want 
of  faithfulness  in  the  support  of  those  noble  testimonies  given  us 
to  bear,  for  the  Prince  of  peace  :  yet,  nevertheless,  in  the  midst  of 
all  our  backslidings,  the  condescending  goodness  of  our  heavenly 
Father  is  such,  as  to  break  the  bread  and  distil  the  water  of  life, 
often,  on  our  gathered  assemblies :  satisfying  the  hungry  and 
thirsty  soul,  and  causing  his  heavenly  rain  to  descend  on  the 
thoughtless  and  worldly-minded  professors,  whose  hearts  are  hke 
the  dry  and  barren  ground,  in  order  that  they  may  be  softened 
and  rendered  fit  for  the  seed  of  his  heavenly  kingdom  to  take  root 
n  and  grow,  to  the  praise  of  his  grace,  and  the  glory  of  his  great 
aid  excellent  name. 

^roni  Plumbstead  we  proceeded  to  Buckingham,  and  rested  on 
sevcith  day,  as  I  was  still  unwell  with  a  cough,  although  much 
better»han  when  I  left  home.  On  first  day  we  attended  Friends' 
nieetinj^  here,  which  was  large,  and  favoured  with  the  over- 
shadowi.gg  of  the  heavenly  Father's  regard,  which  caused  the 
faithful  torejoice.  On  second  day  we  rested  with  our  ancient  and 
worthy  frieid,  Oliver  Paxton,  who  was  under  deep  bodily  afflic- 
tion, and  appeared  dramng  fast  towards  his  close.  He  was  lively 
in  spirit,  and  cheerfully  and  patiently  resigned  to  his  heavenly 


KT.IAS  HICKS. 


313 


Master's  will.    It  was  comfortable  and  instructive  to  be  in  his 
company. 

On  third  day  we  were  at  Solebury  meeting,  of  which  our 
aforesaid  friend  was  a  member  ;  and,  although  in  much  weak- 
ness and  affliction  of  body,  he  accompanied  us  thereto,  and  a 
blessed  meeting  we  had.  After  this,  I  parted  with  him  in  near 
unity  of  spirit,  which  was  a  final  parting  to  us,  as  to  the  body  : 
for  he  lived  but  a  short  time  after.  He  was  an  elder  and  judge 
in  Israel ;  and  his  memory  Avill  be  precious  to  all  the  hving,  who 
were  acquainted  with  him,  and  knew  his  worth. 

The  three  following  days  we  attended  meetings  at  Wright's 
Town,  Makeheld,  and  Newtown.  These  were  all  large,  favour- 
ed meetings,  in  which  the  power  of  truth  was  exalted  over  all 
opposition. 

On  seventh  day  we  rested,  and  wrote  to  our  families. 
On  first  day,  the  21st  of  ' 9th  month,  we  attended  Horsham 
meeting,  which  was  very  large.  Strength  was  alfoided  me  to 
communicate  to  the  people,  and  open  many  gospel  truths,  to  the 
relief  of  my  own  mind,  and,  I  tnist,  to  the  general  satisfaction, 
comfort  and  instruction  of  the  assembly,  which  was  composed  of 
various  denominations  of  professed  Christians,  besides  Friends. 

^  {Second  and  third  days.  We  attended  meetings  at  Upper  Dub- 
lin and  North  Wales.  In  both  of  tliese  meetings  the  heavenly 
Father's  power  and  presence  were  felt  to  preside,  in  an  eminent 
degree,  breaking  down  and  reducing  by  its  blessed  influence  all 
opposing  and  contrary,  spirits,  and  covering  the  assemblies  with 
a  precious  solemnity,  cs})ccially  the  latter,  in  which  truth  reigned 
triumphantly  over  all. 

On  fourth  day  we  had  an  appointed  meoling  in  a  village  called 
Norrislown.  It  was  held  in  their  court-house,  there  being  only 
a  few  scattered  members  of  our  society  living  in  the  place.  The 
meeting  was  pretty  large,  principally  of  people  of  other  professions; 
among  whom  was  the  chief  judge,  and  several  lawyers  and 
priests.  All  were  quiet,  and  through  the  condescending  goodness 
of  the  Shepherd  of  Israel,  it  was,  I  trust  and  believe,  to  most  pre- 
sent, a  very  instruetive  and  precious  season. 

40 


314 


JOURNAL  OP 


Fifth  and  sixth  days.  We  were  at  Friends'  meetings  as  they 
came  in  course,  at  Plymouth  and  Providence.  Notice  having 
been  given  of  our  coming-,  they  were  much  enlarged  by  the  attend- 
ance of  the  neighbours  who  were  not  members.  These  were 
precious  opportunities,  in  which  help  was  afforded  to  preach  the 
gospel  of  life  and  salvation  to  the  people,  accompanied  with  a 
power  which  broke  down  and  subjected  all  to  its  blessed  influ- 
ence ;  for  which  unmerited  favoiu',  the  hearts  of  the  faithful  were 
made  to  rejoice,  and  in  deep  humiliation,  to  return  thanksgiving 
and  praise  to  the  benevolent  and  gracious  Author  of  all  our 
blessings. 

On  seventh  day  we  rested  at  Charlestown.  On  first  day 
attended  the  meeting  at  that  place,  which  was  large,  many  more 
attending  than  the  house  could  contain.  The  three  following 
days  we  attended  meetings  at  tlie  Valley,  Pikeland,  and  NantmiU. 
These  were  all  precious  meetings,  in  which  the  Lord's  presence 
and  power  were  manifested  for  our  help. 

On  fifth  day  we  proceeded  to  Columbia,  a  town  situated  on  the 
east  side  of  the  river  Susquehannah.  We  had  an  appointed 
meeting  there  the  next  day,  in  which  truth  prevailed  ;  neverthe- 
less, a  hireling  priest  who  attended  the  meeting,  afterwards  made 
some  objection  to  the  doctrine  delivered,  as  it  counteracted  his 
traditional  belief  concerning  the  atonement,  the  carnal  ordinances 
of  water  baptism,  and  the  outward  bread  and  wine,  and  preaching 
for  hire,  and  the  scriptures  being  the  only  rule  of  faith  and  prac- 
tice ;  the  fallacy  and  inutility  of  all  which -had  been  laid  open  and 
exposed.  This  roused  his  opposition  ;  and  indeed,  it  is  not  to  be 
wondered  at,  as  it  goes  to  overthrow  all  their  craft,  by  which  they 
have  their  wealth. 

We  proceeded  fiom  thence  to  Little  York,  and  rested  on  seventh 
day.  On  first  day,  attended  Friends'  meeting  there.  It  was  a 
pretty  large,  favoured  meeting,  but  not  feeUng  my  mind  fully  clear, 
I  proposed  another  meeting  in  the  evening ;  and,  notice  being 
given  accordingly,  it  was  very  large,  more  than  the  house  could 
contain.  It  was  a  blessed  meeting,  in  which  the  Lord's  presence 
and  power  were  manifested,  and  truth  raised  into  dominion 
over  all. 


ELIAS  HICKS, 


315 


The  four  following  days,  we  had  meetings  at  Newbury,  War- 
rington, Huntington  and  Monallin.  In  these  opportunities  my 
mind  was  much  engaged  to  turn  the  attention  of  the  people  from 
man,  and  from  all  dependance  on  any  thing  without  them,  to  the 
inward  principle  of  divine  light  and  truth,  the  great  gospel  minis- 
ter ;  which,  as  it  is  heeded  and  obeyed,  leadeth  into  all  truth,  and 
out  of  all  errour  ;  and  without  whose  teaching,  the  true  and 
saving  knowledge  of  God  and  Christ,  which  only  brings  eternal 
life  to  the  soul,  can  never  be  obtained,  although  we  may  be 
favoured  to  sit  under  the  most  powerful  gospel  ministry,  through 
the  instrumentality  of  man,  however  diviirely  quahlied  to  that  end, 
from  youth  to  old  age.  For  all  that  the  best  outward  instru- 
mental help,  either  from  reading  the  scriptures,  or  hearing  the 
gospel  preached  in  the  clear  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  can  do  for 
any  man,  is  only  to  point  to,  and  lead  the  minds  of  the  children 
of  men  home  to  this  divine  inward  principle,  manifested  in  their 
own  hearts  and  minds. 

These  were  all  favoured,  instructive  seasons,  worthy  of  grateful 
remembrance. 

From  Monallin  we  rode  to  Baltimore,  in  order  to  attend  the 
yearly  meeting  at  that  place,  where  we  arrived  on  sixth  day  eve- 
ning, the  10th  of  10th  month.  The  yearly  meeting  of  Ministers 
and  Elders  opened  the  next  day  at  the  tenth  hour,  and  the  yearly 
meeting  for  discipline  at  the  tenth  hour,  on  the  following  second 
day ;  and  continued  by  adjournments  until  the  next  sixth  day  at 
evening,  when  the  meeting  closed  under  an  evident  sense  of  divine 
favour,  and  which  had  been  graciously  extended  through  the 
several  sittings  of  the  meeting.  I  had  much  general  and  par- 
ticular service  in  the  course  of  the  meetings,  both  in  those  for 
worship,  and  those  for  discipline ;  tending  to  gather  Friends' 
minds,  to  an  inward,  faithful  exercise  for  the  support  and  [ironio- 
tion  of  those  noble  testimonies,  that  we,  as  a  people,  are  called  to 
bear  for  the  Prince  of  Peace  ;  and  for  the  exaltation  of  truth  and 
righteousness  in  the  earth.  The  Lord  our  gracious  helper,  by 
his  presence  and  power,  manifested  himself  to  be  near,  setting 
home  the  doctrines  delivered  to  his  witness  in  the  hearts  of  most 
present ;  whereby  Friends  appeared  generally  to  be  united  in 


316 


JOtJRNAL  OT* 


spirit,  and  comforted  together  under  a  renewed  sense  of  the  Lord's 
goodness ;  and  we  pai  Led  from  each  other  witli  thankful  hearts. 

The  meeting  being  ended,  we  left  the  city  the  next  morning, 
in  order  to  take  a  few  meetings  which  lay  westerly,  or  south- 
westerly from  this  place.  We  were  out  from  the  city  about  two 
weeks,  and  attended  the  following  meetings,  viz :  Pipe  Creek, 
Bush  Creek,  Fairfox,  Goose  Creek,  South  Fork,  Alexandiia, 
Washington,  Sandy  Spring,  Indian  Spring,  and  Elk-Ridge.  All 
favoured  meetings,  in  which  the  Lord's  power  and  presence  were 
manifested  for  our  help,  enabling  to  preach  the  gospel  in  the 
authority  of  truth,  to  the  comfort  and  instruction  of  the  honest 
seekers,  and  rejoicing  the  hearts  of  the  faithful,  and  administering 
reproof  and  caution  to  the  disobedient  and  ungodly,  and  to  such  as 
are  living  at  ease  without  God  in  the  world.  I  felt  sweet  peace 
in  my  labours  of  love  among  them. 

After  the  latter  meeting,  we  returned  again  to  Baltimore  on 
sixth  day  afternoon,  the  31st  of  10th  month.  Here  we  con- 
tinued until  the  11th  of  11th  month,  not  only  attending  Friends' 
usual  meetings  as  they  came  in  course  in  the  city,  but  likewise 
their  monthly  meetings,  and  quarterly  meeting,  which  were 
held  during  the  time.  In  all  of  these  I  was  led  into  much 
exercise  and  religious  labour,  both  in  the  ministry  and  in  the 
discipline  and  order  of  the  Church.  We  had,  likewise,  during 
our  stay  in  the  city,  three  very  large,  satisfactory  evening  meetings 
with  the  citizens  at  large.  Two  were  for  the  white  people,  and 
one  for  the  people  of  colour.  I  was  led  forth  among  them,  and 
strengthened  largely  to  declare  of  the  things  concerning  the 
kingdom  of  God,  and  to  open  to  their  consideration  divers  import- 
ant doctrines  of  the  gospel,  in  the  authority  and  demonstration 
of  truth,  apparently  to  their  general  satisfaction,  and  to  the  com- 
fort and  edKication  of  my  friends,  and  the  solid  pence  of  my  own 
mind.  I  then  took  leave  of  them,  under  the  precious  uniting 
influence  of  the  heavenly  Father's  love,  and  the  covering  of  deep 
thankfulness  and  gratitude  for  the  unmerited  favour. 

On  third  day,  the  11th  of  the  month,  we  left  the  city  and  pro- 
ceeded to  a  place  called  the  Bush,  where  there  is  a  small  meeting 
of  Friends.    The  three  following  days  we  attended  meetings  at 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


317 


that  place,  at  Deer  Creek,  and  East,  Nottingham,  all  favoured 
seasons.  After  the  latter  meeting  on  seventh  day,  we  proceeded 
to  Wilmington,  and  attended  Friends'  meetings  there  the  next 
day,  both  forenoon  and  afternoon,  in  which  truth  favoured  with 
ability  to  preach  the  gospol  in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit, 
suited,  I  trust,  to  the  states  of  many,  or  most,  of  the  people  which 
composed  those  large  asserhblies,  and  I  left  them  with  peace  of 
mind. 

On  second  day  I  rode  to  London  Grove,  acxiompanied  by  my 
kind  friend  William  Poole  of  Brandywine,  my  companion  being 
disposed  to  tarry  a  day  longer  at  Wilmington.  On  third  day  the 
qtiarterly  meeting  opened  there  with  a  meeting  of  Miriisters  and 
Elders ;  in  which  I  was  led  to  open  to  Friend*  of  that  meeting, 
the  great  obligations  and  accountability  which  attached  to  those 
who  consented  to  take  seats  in  such  meetings.  For  it  placed  us 
in  the  front  of  society,  and  consequently  we  were  looked  to  as  the 
leaders  of  the  people ;  and  therefore  if  we  should  fall  short  in 
faithfully  holding  up  those  precious  testimonies  we  arc  called  to 
bear  for  the  Prince  of  Peace,  and  in  leading  forward  the  Hock  by 
advancing  the  reformation  as  truth  opens  the  way,  we  shall 
become  stumbling  hloc-ks  in  the  way  of  the  honest  travellers,  and 
thereby  shut  up  their  way  to  improvement,  by  which  they  may 
be  discoin-aged  and  fall  back  and  be  lost ;  in  conseciuence  whereof 
it  is  to  be  feared,  their  blood  might  be  re(|uired  at  the  hands  of 
such  unfaithful  and  dilatory  shepherds.  It  was  an  instructive 
searching  opportunity,  in  which  truth  prevailed  in  an  humbling 
degree. 

The  next  day  was  the  meeting  for  discipline.  It  was  also  a 
very  favoured  searching  season,  in  which  many  of  the  hidden 
things  of  Esau  or  the  first  nature  w^ere  l)roiight  to  liglit  and 
exposed,  and  the  careless  worldly-minded  professors  reproved,  and 
the  honest-hearted  comforted  and  encourag(ul. 

After  this,  feeling  a  draft  of  love  to  those  not  in  membership 
with  us,  I  proposed  an  opportunity  for  them  the  next  day;  and 
Friends  uniting  therewith,  a  meeting  was  accordingly  appointed. 
It  was  a  large  gathering  and  mercifully  owned  by  the  Head  of 
the  Church,  by  the  gracious  manifestation  of  his  divine  presence; 


318 


JOURNAL  OF 


under  the  blessed  influence  of  which,  the  gospel  was  preached  in 
the  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  and  I  parted  with  them  under  a 
thankful  j^ense  of  the  Lord's  mercy,  accompanied  with  a  peaceful 
mind,  and  rode  that  afternoon  to  Concord. 

On  sixtli  day  we  rode  to  Darby  and  lodged  with  our  kind 
friend  Edward  Garrigues,  who  accompanied  us  the  next  morning 
to  Philadelphia.  Here  we  continued  about  a  week,  attending 
Friends'  meetings  in  the  city  as  they  came  in  course.  As  infor- 
mation of  our  coming  had  spread  in  the  town  the  meetings  were 
greatly  thronged,  and  at  some  places  many  more  than  the  houses 
could  contain  ;  people  of  varied  professions,  and  some  of  almost 
every  description,  high  and  low,  appeared  eager  to  attend.  It 
seemed  a  renewed  visitation  to  the  people  in  general.  Friends  and 
others;  and  not  only  at  meetings  l)ut  in  Friends'  families  where  we 
visited,  large  numbers,  especially  of  the  younger  classes,  would 
soon  collect ;  so  that  those  opportunities  were  made  seasons  of 
instruction  and  edification.  For  the  Lord,  I  believe,  beheld  them 
with  a  gracious  eye,  and  opened  my  heart  and  mouth  in  con- 
verse and  communication,  to  the  comfort  and  satisfaction  of  their 
inquiring  minds,  and  enabled  me  in  each  meeting  to  communi- 
cate in  the  line  of  the  gospel  in  large  impressive  testimonies, 
affording  instruction,  comfort  and  edification  to  the  assemblies  in 
general ;  and  I  felt  a  great  power  of  love  to  flow  freely  towards 
them,  which  caused  my  heart  to  rejoice ;  and  1  was  made  glad 
in  believing  that  it  was  the  Lord's  doing,  and  it  was  marvellous 
in  mine  eyes. 

After  I  had  got  through  Friends'  meetings,  I  felt  my  mind 
diawn  to  have  a  pubhc  opportunity  for  those  not  of  our  society ; 
and  Friends  imiting  therewith,  it  was  concluded  to  be  held  on 
the  evening  of  sixth  day.  Friends  apprehending  that  the  num- 
bers who  would  be  desirous  of  attending  would  be  very  great,  it 
was  appointed  at  Mulberry-street,  theu"  largest  house.  As  the  notice 
was  given  at  the  monthly  meeting  at  that  house.  Friends  hke- 
wise  appointed  a  large  connnittee  of  men  and  women  to  have  the 
oversight  of  its  gathering,  and  to  keep  Friends  out  until  their  neigh- 
Ijours  should  first  have  seats  :  but  the  number  that  collected  of 
other  people  was  so  great,  that  it  was  supposed  as  many  went  away 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


31^ 


after  the  house  was  filled,  and  the  yard  around  the  house  as  fer 
as  they  could  hear,  as  there  was  in  the  house.  Every  avenue 
in  the  house  was  filled  with  people,  standing  as  close  as  they 
could  crowd  together.  Such  a  collection  of  people  I  never  saw 
together  Ijefore  on  any  such  occasion.  It  was  with  great  diffi- 
culty that  I  got  into  the  meeting,  and  when  I  had  taken  my  seat, 
in  viewing  the  crowded  state  of  the  multitude,  I  was  ready  to  fear 
that  the  pressure  of  the  people  upon  one  another  would  destroy 
the  solemnity  of  the  meeting  ;  but  as  I  centered  down  to  the  gift, 
life  and  strength  sprang  up,  and  faith  was  increased ;  and  the 
Lord  made  Ixire  his  arm  for  our  lielp,  and  soon  opened  my  mouth 
among  them,  which  brought  a  precious  calm  over  the  assembly. 
Indeed  I  could  scarcely  have  thought  it  possible  had  I  not  seen 
it,  that  such  a  large  promiscuous  multitude,  made  up  almost  of 
every  description  of  people,  should  in  a  few  moments  be  brought 
into  such  a  perfect  state  of  quiet  and  remain  so  for  hours,  until 
the  meeting  closed ;  especially  as  in  the  midst  of  the  meeting 
while  I  was  communicating,  some  ill  advised  persons,  in  order  to 
disturb  the  meeting,  made  a  great  cry  of  fire,  rattling  their  engines 
along  the  street  near  the  house,  but  it  had  no  tendency  to  break 
the  solemnity  of  the  meeting.  My  heart  and  all  that  was  alive 
within  me,  was  bowed  in  humble  thankfulness  to  the  Lord  our 
gracious  helper,  for  such  a  marvellous  and  uniuerited  favour. 
As  my  whole  man  was  filled  with  a  flow  of  heavenly  love  to  the 
multitude,  it  was  likewise  very  comfortable  to  feel  a  mutual 
return  from  them,  for  all  that  could  come  near  me  manifested  it, 
both  by  conduct  and  converse ;  such  a  time  I  never  witnessed 
before :  surely  it  was  the  Lord's  doing,  and  to  him  belongs  all 
the  praise  and  glory  of  hi«  own  work,  nothing  due  to  the  creature 
but  blushing  and  confusion  of  face.  So  let  it  be.  Amen,  saith 
my  spirit. 

I  After  having  got  thus  favourably  through  my  service  in  the 
city,  the  next  morning  I  took  an  affectionate  farewell  of  my 
friends  there,  in  much  unity  of  spirit,  and  passed  over  the  Dela- 
ware to  Newtown,  in  Jersey ;  where  by  previous  appointment 
I  had  a  meeting  at  the  eleventh  hour.  A  considerable  number 
of  f^riends  accompanied  me  thither  from  the  city.    Here  we  had 


320 


JOURNAL  OF 


anot^ier  precious  instructive  meeting.  The  next  day  being  the 
first  of  tlie  week,  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Woodbury  ; 
and  notice  being  spread  of  our  intention  of  being  there  it  was 
unusually  large ;  and.through  the  condescending  goodness  of  Him 
who  opens  and  none  can  shut,  my  heart  and  mouth  were  opened 
in  a  large  effective  testimony,  in  wliich  was  opened  to  the  people 
divers  of  the  most  essential  doctrines  of  Christianity,  I  trust,  to 
the  general  instruction  and  edification  of  those  present,  and  to  the 
comfort  and  peace  of  my  own  mind. 

The  seven  following  days  we  attended  meetings  at  Mulica 
Hill,  Upper  Greenwich,  Perm's  Neck,  Piles  Grove,  Salem,  Allo- 
way's  Creek,  and  Lower  Greenwich.  These  were  all  large 
favoured  meetings,  particularly  the  one  at  Salem  ;  at  which  place 
the  county  court  was  then  sitting,  which  was  adjourned  by  the 
judge  in  order  to  give  the  people  generally  an  opportunity  to 
attend  the  meeting,  which  they  did  ;  the  judge  and  lawyers  with 
the  rest  of  the  court  also  attended.  The  gospel  was  preached  to 
them  and  the  doctrines  of  Christianity  largely  opened,  apparently 
to  the  satisfaction  of  all;  and  truth  was  raised  into  dominion  over 
all  that  was  contrary  to  its  blessed  influence.* 

I'rom  the  latter  place  we  proceetled  on  second  day,  the  8th  of 
12th  month,  to  Morris  River,  alias  Port  Ehzabeth,  where  we  had 
a  A^ery  instructive  edifying  meeting  the  next  day.  The  day 
following  we  rode  to  Little  Eggharbour  ;  and  the  next  day  being 
the  fifth  of  the  week,  we  attended  Friends'  monthly  meeting 
there.  The  meeting  for  worship  was  favoured,  and  truth  pre- 
vailed by  way  of  testimony  ;  and  many  gospel  truths  were  opened 
to  the  consideration  of  the  people,  whereby  many  hearts  were 
humbled  and  contrited. 

The  meeting  for  discipline  was  very  weakly  conducted.  The 
order  of  truth  being  at  a  low  ebb  with  Friends  of  this  place,  and 
but  little  hope  of  improvement,  unless  the  younger  classes  in 
society  come  forward  in  more  faithfulness  than  tlieir  elder  breth- 
ren have  done.  For  most  of  the  few  that  are  left  appeared  to 
be  settling  on  their  lees,  without  any  thought  or  prospect  of 
advancing  the  noble  testimonies  we  are  called  to  bear. 

Our  next  meeting  was  at  Barnegat :  the  day  being  rainy  it 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


321 


was  small,  yet  a  precious  favoured  season.  The  next  day  l>eing 
the  seventh  of  tlie  week  we  rode  to  Squan,  and  the  two  followhig 
days  attended  the  meeting  at  that  place  and  at  Sciuancuni ;  but 
the  weather  being  still  rainy,  these  were  also  small  meetings : 
but  the  power  of  truth  being  present  for  our  help,  rendered  the 
opportunities  instructive  and  edifying.  After  the  latter  meeting 
we  proceeded  to  Shrewsbury,  and  on  third  day,  the  16th  of  12th 
month,  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  there  which  was  large  and 
satisfactory.  Many  gospel  truths  were  fully  and  clearly  opened 
to  the  apparent  satisfaction,  and,  I  trust,  to  the  instruction  and 
edific-ation  of  the  assembly  in  general.  It  was  a  very  solemn 
meeting,  in  which  truth  was  raised  into  dominion,  humbling 
and  coutriting  many  hearts  ;  and  which  brought  my  religious 
labours  in  this  journey  to  a  [)eaceful  close. 

After  this,  the  three  following  days  I  [xissed  directly  home,  and 
found  my  dear  wife,  children,  and  grand-children  in  usual  health, 
to  our  nuitual  rejoicing.  For  this  favour,  together  with  the  con- 
tinued evidence  of  tlie  divine  favour  which  had  accompajiied  me 
in  this  journey,  strengthening  and  enabling  me  from  day  to  day, 
faithfully  to  perform  the  work  and  service  the  Lord  had  appointed 
me,  my  mind  was  impressed  with  deep  thankfulness  and  grati- 
tude for  the  unmerited  mercy. 

Praise  the  Lord,  O  my  soul!  and  forget  not  any  of  his  benefits, 
for  lie  hath  dealt  bountifully  with  thee,  and  set  thee  above  all 
thine  enemies,  to  the  exaltation  of  his  own  glorious  name  and 
power ;  and  who  is  God  over  all,  blessed  for  ever. 


41 


322 


JOURNAL  OF 


CHAPTER  XIV. 


Engagements  at  and  near  home,  and  within  the  limits  of  Westbury  quarterly 
meeting — Visit  to  some  parts  of  the  yearly  meeting  of  New-York,  1818. 

First  day,  the  21st  of  12th  month,  1817.  I  again  met  with 
my  friends  at  home,  in  our  own  meeting,  and  was  glad  to  see 
them  ;  having  been  absent  nearly  four  months,  in  which  time  I 
travelled  about  eleven  hundred  miles,  and  attended  eighty-five 
meetings  for  worship,  and  eleven  for  discipline.  And  now,  at 
home,  I  find  no  time  to  be  idle  5  for  in  this  first  meeting,  my  mind 
was  brought  under  exercise,  and  I  had  to  tell  my  friends,  that  if 
we  would  be  Christians,  we  must  be  united  to  Christ,  and  learn 
by  his  example  to  do  good  for  evil ;  as  it  is  no  certain  mark  of  a 
real  Christian,  to  be  in  the  practice  of  mutual  returns  of  good 
offices  to  one  another.  For  sinners  give  and  lend  to  sinners,  to 
receive  as  much  again.  I  found  afterwards  that  there  was  just 
occasion  for  my  exercise,  as  some  of  my  neighbours,  members  of 
society,  had  been  disputing  and  differing  about  trivial  matters  of 
property.  Alas  for  such !  what  peace  can  they  have  on  earth, 
and  much  less  can  they  hope  for  any  in  heaven,  when  done  with 
time.  For  such  dispositions  cannot  possibly  be  happy  in  the  pre- 
sence of  a  just,  holy,  and  merciful  Being,  who  is  love  ineffable. 

I  sat  our  meeting  on  fifth  day  in  silence,  and  nothing  unusual 
occurred  the  rest  of  the  week. 

First  day,  the  28th.  I  was  led,  while  sitting  in  our  meeting 
to-day,  into  a  view  of  the  great  want  generally  manifested  by  the 
people,  of  living  in  the  fear  of  the  Lord,  and  of  seeking  to  be  ini- 
tiated into  his  kingdom  of  peace  and  love ;  as  nothing  short  of  it 
can  administer  to  any  the  joys  of  salvation,  or  produce  a  real 
redemption  from  the  power  of  evil.    The  subject  spread  on  my 


ELTAS  HICKS. 


323 


mind,  and  opened  to  a  pretty  full  communication,  in  the  line  of 
close  caution  and  warning  to  the  indolent  and  unconcerned,  res- 
pecting the  necessary  preparation  for  our  final  change.  A  solemn 
weight  spread  over  the  assembly,  and  I  have  a  hope  the  labour 
will  not  be  all  lost,  but  sink  deep  and  remain  on  some  minds. 

In  the  course  of  this  week  my  case  seemed  to  resemble  Mor- 
decai's  of  old  ;  after  riding  the  king's  horse,  he  had  to  retire  to  the 
king's  gate,  and  there  wait  for  fresh  direction.  I  also  felt  my 
mind  brought  into  a  waiting  quiet  state,  in  poverty  of  spirit. 
Attended  our  fifth  day  meeting  mostly  in  silence,  except  just 
before  the  close  I  had  to  remark  to  Friends  the  great  advan- 
tage that  accrued  to  us  by  being  embodied  together  in  religious 
society,  under  the  influence  of  truth,  as  our  duties  and  religious 
obligations  became  more  binding  upon  us,  especially  the  diligent 
attendance  of  meetings  for  worship,  which  gave  us  frequent 
opportunity  of  inquiring  into  our  own  states,  and  how  far  we 
stood  accepted  in  the  divine  sight,  and  were  at  peace  with  Him 
and  with  all  men  ;  for  this  is  a  very  requisite  care  which  ought 
not  to  be  neglected,  but  always  be  first  in  our  minds. 

First  day,  the  4th  of  1st  month.  1818.  Having  felt  my  mind 
for  several  days  drawn  to  sit  with  my  friends  at  Martinicock,  I 
accordingly  went  on  this  day,  accompanied  by  my  wife  and 
daughter  Elizabeth.  Although  the  meeting  was  not  altogether 
so  large  as  at  some  other  times  on  this  day  of  the  week,  the 
weather  being  cold,  yet  the  opportunity,  through  the  manifesta- 
tion of  divine  regard,  by  which  I  was  enaliled  to  preach  the  gos- 
pel in  the  demonstration  of  truth,  was  rendered  an  instructive 
edifying  season,  and  we  were  comforted  together  under  a  renewed 
sense  of  the  Lord's  goodness. 

Second  day.  I  attended  the  funeral  of  a  neighbour.  It  was 
a  promiscuous  gathering  of  different  societies  of  professed  Chris- 
tians. I  was  largely  led  forth  among  them  to  declare  of  the 
things  concerning  the  kingdom  of  God,  and  to  open  to  the  people 
in  a  clear  and  impressive  manner,  the  way  and  means  by  which 
we  may  come  to  have  an  inheritance  therein,  and  that  nothing 
short  of  our  coming  into  a  passive  state  without  a  will  of  our  own, 
as  a  little  child,  agreeably  to  the  doctrine  of  our  Lord,  will  ever 


324  JOURNAL  OP 

qualify  us  for  that  blessed  inheritance,  where  nothing  that  vvorketh 
an  abomination  or  maketh  a  lie  can  ever  enter.  It  was  a  season 
of  favour,  in  which  truth  had  the  victory,  and  I  felt  peace  in 
my  laboiu"  of  love  among  them. 

On  third  day  I  went  to  New- York,  accompanied  by  my  son-in- 
law  Valentine  Hicks,  in  order  to  attend  the  monthly  meeting  of 
Friends  there,  which  came  the  next  day.  I  attended  it  accord- 
ingly. It  was  a  pretty  full  meeting,  in  which  1  was  led  in  a 
close,  searching  line  in  my  testimony,  which  agitated  some  of  the 
worshippers  in  the  outer  court,  and  made  them  fretful.  Alas  for 
such  professors  !  what  will  they  do  in  tlie  end,  when  the  winds 
blow  and  the  rains  descend  ?  Surely  their  sandy  foundation  will 
fail  them  ;  then  will  they  be  made  to  call  to  the  rocks  and  moun- 
tains of  their  own  exalted  self-righteousness,  to  cover  them  from 
the  prevailing  indignation  which  they  have  brought  upon  them- 
selves, by  their  own  neglect  of  a  right  improvement  of  the  talent 
with  which  they  had  been  entrusted,  and  which  they  had  buried 
in  an  earthly  mind  ;  but  their  cries  will  be  in  vain,  as  the  hypo- 
crite's hope  will  perish. 

Fifth  day.  I  attended  Friends'  meeting  held  in  the  middle  of 
the  week  at  Flushing,  at  which  there  was  a  marriage,  which  caused 
it  to  be  much  enlarged,  by  many  of  the  neighbouring  inhabitants 
coming  in  who  do  not  usually  attend.  It  was  a  favoured  season, 
in  which  I  was  led  to  communicate  divers  important  doctrines  of 
the  Christian  religion,  and  to  open  the  true  ground  of  the  mar- 
riage covenant,  whcreljy  male  and  female  may  be  rightly  joined 
together,  so  as  to  become  true  helpers  and  blessings  to  each  other. 
After  this,  I  returned  home  that  evening  with  the  blessing  of 
peace,  the  sure  reward  of  faithfulness,  and  retired  willingly  to  the 
waiting  gate  of  inward  trust,  and  poverty  of  spirit. 

First  day,  the  11th.  My  mind  was  led  into  a  view  of  the 
necessity  of  doing  all  our  works  to  please  God,  and  not  to  please 
ourselves,  or  one  another  ;  and  the  only  way  to  please  our  neigh- 
bours to  edification,  was  to  do  all  to  please  the  Lord,  who  hath 
promised  that  if  our  ways  please  him  he  will  make  our  enemies 
to  be  at  peace  with  us.  The  subject  spread  and  led  to  communi- 
cation, in  which  the  people  were  invited  to  acquaint  themselves 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


325 


with  God,  and  be  at  peace  with  him  by  doing  his  will,  and  not 
our  own,  whereby  good  would  come  luUo  us  ;  hence  we  should 
please  one  another  to  our  mutual  edification  and  comfort. 

On  fifth  day  our  monthly  meeting  was  held.  It  was  a  season 
of  exercise,  occasioned  by  a  case  of  difficulty  being  improperly 
introduced  into  the  meeting. 

1  saw  clearljr  the  meeting  could  not  get  along  with  it  m  its  - 
present  form,  as  it  had  taken  ground  which  was  not  tenable. 
It  was  therefore  agreed  to  dismiss  the  subject  for  the  present,  and 
let  it  be  taken  up  anew,  unless  on  a  further  investigation  by  the 
overseers,  it  should  be  settled. 

How  necessary  it  is  for  those  who  take  an  active  part  in  the 
discipline  of  the  Church,  to  wait  for  a  right  qualification,  and  not 
to  put  a  hand  to  the  work  vmtil  they  are  rightly  called  and 
furnislied,  with  that  wisdom  wliicli  is  profitable  to  direct ;  for  other- 
wise, uistead  of  advancing  the  cause  of  righteousness,  they  may 
retard  its  progress,  and  do  harm  to  themselves,  like  Uzza  of  old, 
when  he  put  forth  an  unsanctified  hand  to  steady  the  ark. 

I  opened  in  this  meeting  to  my  friends,  a  prospect  I  had  of 
paying  a  religious  visit  to  some  of  the  neighbouring  inhabitants 
not  in  membership  with  us,  within  the  borders  of  our  (juarterly 
meeting  ;  with  which  the  meeting  united,  and  left  me  at  liberty 
to  pursue  the  prospect  as  way  might  open  for  it. 

The  rest  of  this  week  was  spent  in  the  care  of  my  necessary 
temporal  concerns,  and  the  week  ended  with  peace  of  mind 
and  a  thankful  heart,  for  the  continued  blessings  of  a  gracious 
Providence. 

First  day,  the  18th.  Our  meeting  to-day  was  favoured,  and 
the  power  of  truth  exalted,  and  the  gospel  preached  in  its  own 
authority,  and  a  precious  solemnity  spread  over  the  meeting,  which 
ended  in  thanksgiving  for  the  mercy,  and  solemn  supplication  for 
the  continuance  of  divine  regard. 

In  the  course  of  this  week  our  quarterly  meeting  was  held  at 
Westbury.  It  was  a  favoured  season,  particularly  the  last  day  or 
closing  meeting  for  public  worship,  in  whi(;h  the  Lord's  presence 
and  power  were  manifested  in  an  eminent  degree,  and  truth  was 
exalted  and  a  precious  solemnity  spread  over  the  assembly,  con- 


326 


JOURNAL  OP 


victing,  contriting,  and  comforting  many  hearts ;  to  the  praise 
of  Him  who  is  calling  us  out  of  darkness  into  his  marvellous 
hght. 

First  day,  the  25th.  A  silent  meeting  on  my  part  to-day. 
How  comfortable  it  is  to  sit  silently  under  the  shadow  of  our  own 
vine  and  our  own  fig-tree,  where  none  can  make  afraid. 

Second  day.  I  attended  the  funeral  of  my  eldest  and  last 
surviving  brother.  I  am  now  the  last  and  only  survivor  of  six 
brethren,  and  am  myself  arrived  nearly  to  the  age  of  three  score 
and  ten  ;  therefore  cannot  expect  many  more  days,  as  I  con- 
tinually feel  time  making  its  ravages  on  the  animal  system,  and 
which,  as  a  faithful  herald,  exclaims  repeatedly  to  the  inward 
ear,  "  prepare  to  die."  There  was  a  large  promiscuous  collection  of 
people  of  different  societies  attended  the  funeral.  I  was  largely  led 
forth  among  them  to  declare  the  way  of  life  and  salvation,  and  to 
open  many  very  important  doctrines  of  the  Christian  religion.  The 
assembly  were  generally  very  quiet  and  attentive,  and,  I  believe, 
to  many,  it  was  a  season  of  solid  instruction  and  edification. 
I  left  them  with  peace  of  mind  and  a  thankful  heart. 

I  attended  our  fifth  day  meeting  as  usual,  and  mostly  in  silence. 
On  sixth  day  I  attended  the  funeral  of  a  person  not  in  member- 
ship. It  was  principally  made  up  of  tlie  poorer  kind  of  people, 
who  made  little  or  no  profession  of  religion,  except  a  few  Friends 
and  some  of  the  Methodist  society.  I  was  deeply  baptized  into 
a  feeling  of  their  weak  state,  in  which  I  was  led  to  communicate 
according  to  their  capacity  to  receive  :  which  brought  a  comfort- 
able solemnity  over  the  assembly  to  their  general  satisfaction,  and 
I  felt  peace  in  my  labour  of  love  among  them. 

First  day,  the  1st  of  2d  month.  As  I  sat  musing  in  silence  in 
our  meeting,  my  mind  was  led  into  a  view  of  the  great  mischief 
and  harm  which  result  to  mankind,  by  their  giving  way  to  harbour 
and  indulge  vain  and  evil  thoughts.  The  subject  spread  and  led 
to  communication,  in  which  I  had  to  show  to  the  assembly  that 
our  redemption  and  salvation  principally  depended  on  a  right 
government  of  our  thoughts,  and  that  if  men  and  women  were 
as  fearful  of  evil  thinking  as  they  are  of  evil  doing,  and  as  desi- 
rous of  avoiding  one  as  the  other,  they  would  soon  find  themselves 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


327 


empowered  as  fully  to  avoid  evil  thinking  as  to  avoid  evil  doing; 
and  this  would  be  a  suppression  of  sin  in  its  first  rise:  and  there 
is  no  other  way  for  any  man  or  woman  to  become  righteous  and 
holy  in  the  sight  of  God,  who  as  certainly  at  all  times  sees  our 
evil  thoughts,  and  more  so  than  man  can  see  our  evil  actions : 
yet  nevertheless  poor  blind  forgetful  man  wUl  please  and  enter- 
tain himself  with  abundance  of  evil  thoughts  in  the  open  view 
of  his  Maker,  while  at  the  same  time  he  would  dread  to  expose 
them  by  overt  acts,  in  the  view  of  men.  This  shows  how  much 
more  predominant  the  fear  of  man  is  with  the  most  of  mankind, 
than  the  fear  of  God  their  Creator.  I  hope  the  opportunity  was 
profitable  and  instructive  to  some  present. 

Second  day,  the  9th.  I  rode  to  New- York  in  order  to  attend 
the  meeting  for  sufferings  which  came  the  next  day,  and  which  I 
attended  accordingly.  After  this  I  spent  several  days  in  the  city 
and  neighbourhood,  in  prosecuting  the  concern  I  opened  before 
our  last  monthly  meeting.  My  kinsman  Isaac  Hicks  accompa- 
nied me. 

I  attended  Pearl-street  meeting  as  it  came  in  course  on  fourth 
day,  and  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  the  same  place  in  the 
evening,  for  the  inhabitants  of  the  town  at  large.  It  was  a  very 
fuU  meeting,  many  more  collected  than  the  house  could  contain. 
The  next  day  I  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Manhattanville, 
and  iA  the  evening  had  a  public  meeting  in  the  city,  at  Friends' 
meeting-house  in  Liberty-street.  These  were  all  full  favoured 
meetings,  in  which  truth  reigned  and  subjected,  at  least  for  the 
present,  all  contrary  spirits,  which  was  cause  of  humble  thankful- 
ness to  my  mind. 

We  left  the  city  on  sixth  day  and  had  an  appointed  meeting 
at  Brooklyn  in  the  evening.  On  seventh  day  we  had  two  meet- 
ings in  Newtown,  the  first  at  Friends'  meeting-house  at  the 
Kilns,  and  the  latter  at  the  town  in  the  evening.  These  three 
last  meetings  were  principally  made  up  of  people  of  other  societies, 
who  behaved  very  commendably  and  appeared  well  affected  with 
the  meetings;  and  truth's  testimonies  were  largely  and  satisfac- 
torily opened  in  each  meeting,  comforting  and  contriting  many 
hearts,  and  to  the  solid  peace  of  my  own  mind. 


328 


JOURNAL  OP 


On  first  day,  the  15th,  I  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Flush- 
ing, and  some  notice  having  been  spread  of  my  coming,  it  was 
large  ;  and  was  added  to  by  a  number  from  Newtown,  of  other 
societies  who  had  attended  the  two  meetings  held  there  the 
day  before.  This  was  also  an  open  instructive  meeting,  in 
which  divers  doctrines  of  the  gospel  were  communicated  in  the 
life,  to  the  edification  of  the  people.  The  next  day  I  returned 
home  and  found  my  fomily  well,  which,  with  the  peace  of  mind 
that  accompanied,  produced  thankfulness  of  heart  to  the  blessed 
Author  of  all  our  mercies  and  blessings. 

Fifth  day.  I  attended  oiu-  monthly  meeting.  It  was  rather  a 
dull  exercising  season,  in  which  I  was  led  into  some  painful 
labour. 

On  sixth  day,  I  proceeded  again  on  the  visit  to  some  of  the 
neighbouring  inhabitants.  Had  an  appointed  meeting  in  the 
evening  at  Hempstead  Harbour,  and  the  next  evening  at  the 
lower  part  of  Cowneck.  Both  were  full  meetings.  In  the  former 
I  was  largely  opened  by  way  of  testimony,  and  many  important 
doctrines  of  the  gospel  were  communicated  for  the  instruction 
and  edification  of  the  peojile,  and  I  left  them  with  peace  of  mind. 
In  the  latter  I  was  mostly  silent.  On  first  day  I  attended  Friends' 
meeting  at  Cowneck,  which  was  well  attended ;  many  of  the 
neighbouring  inhabitants  coming  in  that  were  not  members, 
who  behaved  soberly.  It  was  a  favomed  satisfactory  season,  in 
which  truth  reigned. 

In  the  evening  I  had  a  pretty  large  instructive  meeting  in  the 
village  of  Herricks.  It  was  a  solemn  time,  in  which  many  truths 
of  the  gospel  were  clearly  opened,  apparently  to  the  satisfaction 
and  edification  of  the  assemljly  in  general,  and  I  returned  home 
next  morning  with  peace  of  mind. 

On  fourth  day  I  attended  Bethpage  meeting,  at  which  there 
was  a  marriage,  which  occasioned  the  meeting  to  be  very  large. 
I  think  it  was  much  the  largest  I  had  ever  seen  in  that  place. 
There  was  a  large  number  of  young  people,  and  although  many 
of  them  appeared  raw  and  undisciplined,  yet  they  generally 
behaved  orderly  dining  the  meeting,  and  I  had  a  pretty  open 
time  among  them.    I  was  led  to  set  forth  the  nature  and  dignity 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


329 


of  the  marriage  covenant  when  rightly  entered  into,  and  the  sad 
reverse,  when  rashly  and  unadvisedly  undertaken  ;  and  espe- 
cially so  when  unequally  yoked  together,  and  of  different  persua- 
sions as  to  religion :  for  being  disunited  in  the  main  point,  it 
most  certainly  must  tend  to  disturb  their  quiet  and  imbitter  their 
enjoyments.  And  the  offspring  of  such  connexions  are  greatly 
to  be  pitied;  attached  by  nature  to  both  parents,  how  confused 
must  be  their  ideas  with  regard  to  which  they  sliall  follow  ;  and 
as  it  often  happens,  the  Ijoys  going  witli  tlieir  father,  and  the 
daughters  with  their  mother  ;  hence,  children  which  ought  to  be 
bound  together  in  the  strongest  ties  of  natural  affection  and  con- 
sanguinity, are  in  early  life  divided  in  principle  and  in  conduct, 
by  which  they  become  ahenated  from  each  other.  To  avoid 
which  the  youth  were  earnestly  and  affectionately  invited  and 
admonished  to  put  in  practice  the  exhortation  of  Jesus  Christ  to 
his  immediate  followers,  and  the  people  which  resorted  to  hear 
him,  viz :  To  seek  first  the  kingdom  of  God  and  Ins  righteous- 
ness, in  a  full  belief  that  as  we  comply  therewith,  ail  other  things 
needful  and  consolatory  will  be  added. 

I  attended  our  own  meeting  the  next  day  in  silence,  and  feel- 
ing a  stop  in  my  mind  as  to  proceeding  further  at  present  in  the 
visit  before  me,  I  turned  my  attention  to  my  family  concerns,  not 
being  willing  to  spend  any  of  n)y  precious  time  in  idleness. 

First  day.  Sat  our  meeting  in  silence.  It  is  a  precious  thing 
and  very  consoling,  to  all  Zion's  exercised  travellers  in  the  path 
of  duty,  to  be  instructed  how  and  when  to  speak,  and  when  to 
keep  silence. 

Fifth  day.  A  .silent  meeting.  Spent  the  rest  of  the  week  in 
attention  to  my  family  concerns. 

First  day,  the  8th  of  3d  month.  A  favoured  open  time  in  our 
meeting  to-da\',  in  which  the  gospel  was  preached  in  its  own 
authority,  and  in  which  the  excellency  and  reality  of  the  divine 
principle  of  grace  and  truth  was  opened  and  explained  ;  showiiig 
it  to  V)e  the  same  breath  of  life  which  was  lireathed  into  man  on 
the  day  of  his  creation,  and  which  constituted  (he  divine  image 
in  man,  and  is  the  Lamb  or  innocent  life  of  God,  and  which 

42 


330 


JOURNAL  OP 


innocent  life  was  slain  in  our  first  parents  by  their  first  transgres- 
sion.   Hence  it  is  called  the  Lamb  slain  from  the  foundation  of 
the  world,  agreeably  to  the  scriptures  ;  but  no  otherwise  slain 
than  by  man's  rejecting  it,  and  turning  away  from  it,  into  the 
serpentine  wisdom  ;  by  which  man  became  dead  to  this  divine 
Ufe,  and  that  dead  to  him.    Hence  the  denunciation  was  fulfilled 
on  man,  in  the  day  thou  eatest  thereof,  that  is,  in  the  day  thou 
turnest  away  from  this  divine  life,  and  presuraest  to  know  good 
and  evil  for  thyself,  thou  shalt,  or  wilt,  surely  die ;  which  was 
accordingly  fulfilled  on  our  first  parents  in  the  day  of •  their 
transgression,  and  consequently  on  all  their  offspring  who  have 
followed  their  example.    Agreeably  to  the  apostle  Paul's  doctrine, 
it  then  follows,  that  as  in  Adam  all  die,  that  is,  as  in  our  trans- 
gressing like  Adam,  we  take  upon  us  Adam's  nature  in  the  fall, 
which  nature  is  a  state  of  death ;  so  on  the  contrary,  as  we  turn 
inward  to  the  divine  light  and  law,  and  repent  of  our  transgres- 
sions, and  become  sincerely  obedient  thereunto,  by  denying  our- 
selves and  taking  up  our  cross  daily,  we  then  come  into  the 
obedience  of  Christ ;  not  doing  our  own  will,  but  the  will  of  our 
heavenly  Father.    We  then  put  on  Christ  and  become  partakers 
of  his  divine  nature,  and  thereby  come  to  witness  in  our  own 
experience,  not  only  that  in  Adam,  that  is,  in  Adam's  nature  in 
the  fall,  which  we  have  taken  upon  us  by  our  own  transgression, 
and  not  by  Adam's,  we  die  or  witness  a  state  of  death  to  the 
divine  nature  :  so  likewise  in  our  coming  into  the  obedience  of 
Christ,  we  take  upon  us  his  divine  nature;  and  are  thereby  made 
alive  and  come  to  witness  the  Lamb  which  was  slain  in  us, 
while  we  remained  in  Adam's  nature,  to  rise  from  the  dead  and 
become  Christ  in  us  the  hope  of  glory,  or  the  Lamb  of  God  which 
taketh  away  the  sin  of  the  world.    Therefore  all  the  varied 
names  given  in  scripture  to  this  divine  light  and  life,  such  as 
Emmanuel,  Jesus,  sent  of  God,  great  Prophet,  Christ  our  Lord, 
Grace,  Unction,  Anointed,  &c.  mean  one  and  the  same  thing ; 
and  are  nothing  less  nor  more,  than  the  spirit  and  power  of  God 
in  the  soul  of  man,  as  his  Creator,  Preserver,  Condemner,  Re- 
deemer, Saviour,  Sanctifier  and  Justifier. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


331 


Spent  the  rest  of  the  week  at  and  about  home.  Attended  our 
preparative  meeting  on  fifth  day.  The  meeting  for  worship  I 
sat  mostly  in  silence. 

First  day,  the  15th.  In  the  course  of  our  meeting  I  felt  con- 
strained to  communicate  some  plain  truths  in  doctrine  and  in 
caution,  to  the  unguarded  and  refractory ;  but  which  seemed  too 
much  to  rebound,  for  want  of  a  disposition  in  such  to  receive  the 
word  preached,  as  they  are  apt  to  kick  against  the  truth  when  it 
is  plainly  told  them  ;  this  causes  hard  labour  to  the  messengers, 
who,  altliough  they  feel  the  woe  and  are  constrained  to  labour, 
yet  find  little  satisfaction  therein,  except  in  the  consciousness  of 
having  faithfully  done  their  duty  to  their  careless  and  deficient 
brethren  and  fellow  creatures. 

In  the  afternoon  I  proceeded  in  the  concern  before  expressed, 
in  visiting  some  of  the  neighbouring  inliabitants.  Had  an 
appointed  meeting  at  Jerusalem  in  the  evening,  and  on  second 
day,  a  meeting  about  four  miles  westerly  from  thence.  On  third 
day  I  had  one  further  on,  in  a  southwesterly  direction,  among  a 
people  in  moderate  circumstances  as  to  this  world,  but  whose 
minds  seemed  generally  open  to  receive  the  doctrines  of  truth.  I 
also  had  a  meeting  in  the  evening  of  this  day  in  the  town  of 
Hempstead.  These  were  all  large  favoured  meetings,  especially 
the  last,  which  was  unusually  so,  and  in  which  the  truths  of  the 
gospel  were  largely  communicated,  apparently  to  the  satisfaction 
and  edification  of  the  assembly,  and  to  the  peace  of  my  own 
mind.  We  returned  home  the  next  day,  attending  Westbury 
monthly  meeting  in  our  way. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  monthly  meeting.  In  the  meeting 
for  worship  I  was  led  to  open  to  Friends  the  many  precious  advan- 
tages and  privileges  resulting  from  a  firm  faith  and  sincere  trust 
in  the  Almighty  Jehovah.  For  thereby  we  come  to  witness  all 
those  great  and  precious  promises  fulfilled  which  the  scriptures 
mention,  and  know  in  our  own  experience  that  they  who  trust 
in  the  Lord  are  never  confounded. 

The  rest  of  the  week  I  was  busily  employed  in  a  variety  of 
temporal  concerns,  as  I  find  no  time  to  be  idle,  either  in  body 
or  mind,  for  nothing  affords  so  much  true  peace  as  a  con- 


332 


JOURNAL  OF 


sciousness  of  the  right  improvement  and  employment  of  precious 
time. 

First  day,  the  22d.  By  previous  appointment  I  attended  a 
meeting  at  the  house  of  our  friend  James  Rushmore,  at  the  Half- 
way Hollow  Hills,  at  the  eleventh  hour,  and  in  the  evening  at  a 
place  called  Babylon,  on  the  south  side  of  the  Island.  These  meet- 
ings, by  the  extreme  inclemency  of  the  weather,  were  small,  espe- 
cially the  first,  where  it  was  like  the  two  or  three  as  to  number,  yet 
I  found  a  good  degree  of  satisfaction  in  faithfully  attending  to  the 
appointment,  although  I  had  to  ride  a  dozen  miles  or  more 
through  the  storm,  which  was  so  extreme  as  to  prevent  nearly 
all  the  neigh])ours  from  attending  the  meeting,  and  in  our  pass- 
ing from  one  meeting  to  the  other,  the  wind  blew  with  such 
violence,  that  our  carriage  seemed  several  times  near  blowing 
over  ;  but  we  got  along  safe,  and  had  a  comfortable  meeting  at 
the  latter  place  in  the  evening.  After  this  I  rode  to  my  son-in- 
law  Joshua  Willits',  at  Islip,  and  lodged.  I  spent  most  of  the 
next  day  at  his  house,  and  on  third  day  at  the  eleventh  hour  had 
a  j)rctty  large  favoured  meeting  at  the  house  of  our  friend  Thomas 
Whitson,  at  Oysterbay  South.    After  this  I  returned  home. 

In  our  fifth  day  meeting  I  was  made  an  example  of  silence. 

First  day,  the  29th.  In  our  meeting  to-daj'^  I  was  led  into  an 
enlightened  view  of  the  excellency  of  faith,  and  its  blessed  eflfects 
on  the  minds  of  those  who  come  to  witness  its  lively  o]ieration. 

The  subject  opened  to  communication  in  a  large  afiecting  tes- 
timony, recapitulating  its  wonder-working  power  in  the  holy 
ancients,  and  showing  that  its  efficacy  was  the  same  now  as  in 
former  days,  to  those  who  become  rightly  initiated  into  it  through 
faithful  obedience  to  divine  requiring,  as  nothing  else  will  establish 
us  in  that  living  faith  which  works  by  love,  and  gives  victory  over 
the  workL 

Fifth  day.  Attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Martinicock,  in 
which  I  was  an  example  of  silence.  At  the  second  hour  in  the 
afternoon,  I  attended  the  funeral  of  (Jliarles  Thorne,  a  person 
inclining  to  Friends,  in  the  neighbourhood  of  Moscheto  Cove. 
There  was  a  large  collection  of  the  neighbours,  among  whom  I 
was  led  to  communicate  and  oi)cn  divers  essential  doctrines  of 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


333 


the  gospel,  and  to  set  forth  the  design  and  end  of  the  types  and 
shadows  of  the  law  dispensation  given  to  Israel,  and  to  Israel 
ordy ;  and  to  show  that  (hey  were  finished  and  abolished  by  the 
introduction  of  the  gospel  state,  or  the  diffusion  of  the  spirit  of 
truth,  or  Holy  Ghost,  in  the  minds  of  the  believers,  by  which 
only  we  can  come  to  have  a  living  faith  made  perfect  by  good 
works,  because  faith  without  works  is  dead. 

First  day,  the  5th  of  4th  month.  A  silent  meeting  to-day. 
This  week  busily  employed  in  my  temporal  concerns,  even  so  as 
to  occasion  wearisomeness  at  times.  What  a  comfortable  state 
would  even  this  world  afford,  if  men  and  women  were  all 
honest  enough  to  do  their  right  portion  of  labour,  for  want  of 
which  thousands  in  every  country  are  inventing  pitiful  and 
unrighteous  schemes  to  obtain  a  livelihood  from  the  labours  of 
others.  These,  let  them  be  high  or  low,  learned  or  unlearned, 
rich  or  poor,  make  up  that  class  of  mankind,  w  ho  grievously 
oppress  and  grind  the  faces  of  the  poor. 

First  day,  the  12th.  I  had  a  precious  open  time  in  our  meet- 
ing to-day,  in  which  I  was  led  largely  to  open  many  truths  of  the 
gospel,  in  a  clear  instructive  manner,  which  brought  a  precious 
solenuiity  over  the  meeting,  and  which  closed  vmder  the  sensible 
covering  of  divine  favour. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  monthly  meeting.  It  was  the  time 
for  preparing  answers  to  the  queries  to  go  up  to  the  yearly  meet- 
ing, and  was,  I  believe,  a  season  of  profitable  exercise. 

First  day,  the  19th.  I  had  good  service  in  our  meeting  to-day, 
and  through  the  overshadowing  wing  of  divine  kindness,  it 
proved  a  precious  opportunity.  In  the  course  of  this  week  I 
attended  our  quarterly  meeting,  held  at  this  time  in  New- York. 
It  was  a  favoured  season  in  the  several  sittings  of  it,  affording 
encouragement  to  the  honest-hearted,  to  persevere  on  in  their 
heavenl}'  way  without  turning  aside  to  the  right  hand  or  the  left, 
through  fear,  favour  or  afiection.  The  labour  in  the  hne  of  com- 
munication fell  mostly  to  my  lot. 

l''iist  day,  the  2GLh.  1  was  made  an  example  of  silence 
through  our  meeting  to-day.  Nothing  of  particular  notice  occur- 
red in  the  course  of  this  week. 


334  ~  JOURNAL  OP 

Fil-st  day,  the  3d  of  5th  month.  I  attended  the  funeral  of  our 
ancient  worthy  friend  Jacob  Underbill,  of  Cedar  Swamp.  There 
was  a  very  large  collection  of  Friends  and  neighbours  assembled 
on  the  occasion,  he  being  very  generally  beloved  and  esteemed  by 
his  acquaintance  and  Friends.  A  very  solemn  meeting  was  held 
at  the  meeting-house  at  Martinicock,  on  the  occasion,  in  which  I 
was  largely  led  forth  in  ministry  and  doctrine,  so  that  many  hearts 
were  contrited,  to  the  general  satisfaction  and  edification  of  the 
assembly,  and  to  the  peace  of  my  own  mind. 

In  the  afternoon  I  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  the  house  of 
Amos  Cheshire,  about  four  miles  easterly  from  our  village. 
Through  divine  favour  it  was  made  an  instructive,  profitable 
season,  in  which  truth  was  exalted  over  all  opposition. 

Fifth  day.  I  attended  the  funeral  of  my  kinswoman  the  widow 
Sarah  Albertson.  A  solemn  meeting  was  held  on  the  occasion, 
at  Friends'  meeting-house  at  Westbury,  in  which  I  had  good  ser- 
vice. I  was  led  to  open  in  a  clear  manner,  the  superiour  excel- 
lence of  the  divine  principle  of  light  and  truth,  borne  testimony 
to  by  the  society  ever  since  we  have  been  a  people,  and  showing 
that,  where  that  is  wanting,  or  is  not  given  heed  to,  every  thing 
else  will  and  must  fail  of  effecting  the  great  work  of  our  salvation, 
as  no  other  means  are  adequate  to  that  end.  It  was  a  season  of 
favour,  in  which  I  was  largely  opened  to  declare  of  the  things 
concerning  the  kingdom  of  heaven,  and  to  open  to  the  people 
many  tinths  of  the  gospel,  in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit, 
accompanied  with  power  ;  which  solemnized  and  tendered  many 
minds.  Surely  it  was  the  Lord's  doing,  and  to  him  belongs  all 
the  praise  :  nothing  due  to  man. 

First  day,  the  10th.    A  hard  trying  meeting,  mostly  silent. 

Fifth  day.  Had  the  acceptable  company  of  our  friend  Maiy 
Naftel,  from  England.  She  laboured  in  the  ability  afforded  for 
our  help  and  encouragement,  which  honest  travail  does  not 
fail  of  meeting  its  own  reward,  true  peace  of  mind,  the  richest 
treasure. 

First  day,  the  17th.    Silent  in  our  meeting  to-day. 
Fifth  day.    Attended  our  monthly  meeting,  at  which  we  had 
the  company  of  our  esteemed  friend  Phebe  Field  from  Scipio. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


335 


Her  company,  together  with  her  Uvely,  simple,  plain  testimony, 
corresponding  with  our  profession,  were  truly  acceptable  and 
refieshing. 

Seventh  day,  the  23d.  I  left  home  early  in  the  morning  in 
order  to  attend  our  yearly  meeting,  accompanied  by  my  wife  and 
daughter  Elizabetli.  We  arrived  in  New-York  in  time  to  attend 
the  first  sitting  of  the  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders,  which 
optnied  at  the  tenth  hour.  The  meeting  for  discipline  opened  the 
following  second  day  at  ten  o'clock,  and  closed  on  fifth  day  eve- 
ning. It  was  shorter  as  to  time  than  usual ;  but  I  think,  in  the 
main,  it  was  a  favoured  meeting,  and  closed  well,  under  an  hum- 
bling sense  of  divine  condescension  and  regard,  and  Friends  sepa- 
rated to  their  several  homes,  lurder  a  feeling  sense  of  brotherly  love. 

First  day,  the  31st.  Attended  our  meeting  in  silence,  and  in 
much  poverty  of  spirit,  and  although  we  had  the  company  of  a 
Friend  who.  was  travelling  in  the  ministry,  and  who  appeared 
pretty  large  in  testimony ;  yet  it  seemed  void  of  life  to  nie,  which 
I  was  willing  to  conclude  was  my  own  fault.  We  had  another 
meeting  appointed  at  the  fourth  hour  in  the  afternoon,  by  two 
women  Friends  from  West  Jersey.  This  was  also  a  meeting  of 
exercise  to  me,  without  laying  any  thing  to  the  charge  of  my 
friends. 

Fifth  day.  A  silent  meeting.  The  rest  of  the  week  labori- 
ously exercised  in  my  temporal  concerns.  Oh  how  killing  too 
much  bodily  labour  is  to  our  best  spiritual  life,  and  although  it 
may  be  no  more  than  is  our  duty  to  do,  in  order  comfortably  to 
accommodate  our  families,  and  the  timely  payment  of  our  just 
debts,  and  the  punctual  performance  of  all  our  contracts,  yet  even 
then  divine  wisdom  has  so  wisely  ordered  the  events  of  things,  as 
to  impress  caution  on  our  minds,  by  not  suffering  us  to  reap  much 
spiritual  content  or  inward  enjoyment  from  bodily  exercise,  or 
worldly  care,  lest  as  man  is  naturally  prone  to  seek  earthly  things, 
he  might  become  so  swallowed  up  in  his  temporal  enjoyments,  as 
to  neglect  the  one  thing  needful,  that  of  laying  up  treasure  ia 
heaven. 

First  day,  the  7th  of  6th  month.    We  had  a  large  meeting 
to-day,  and  having  been  made  an  example  of  silence  for  a  number 


336 


JOURNAL  OF 


of  meeting  days  past,  I  also  looked  for  the  same  at  this  time,  till 
nearly  half  the  time  of  our  meeting  was  expired.  1  sat  clothed 
in  darkness,  a  darkness  wliich  could  be  felt ;  but  after  wrestling 
for  about  an  hour  a  gleam  of  light  sprang  up,  and  a  prospect 
revived,  which  had  pres'ented  at  the  opening  of  the  meeting,  and 
enlarged  with  increasing  weight  until  it  led  to  communication. 
In  the  course  thereof,  the  original  state  of  man  was  considered, 
and  presented  to  the  view  of  the  audience  ;  and  the  state  of  rec- 
titude in  which  he  was  j)laced  by  his  gracious  Creator  ;  also  the 
way* shown,  by  and  through  which  he  fell,  in  a  way  clearly  to 
discharge  and  exculpate  tlic  all-equitable  and  perfect  Jehovah 
from  any  blame,  as  having  any  part  or  hand  in  man's  ftdl  and 
rum,  and  placing  it  wholly  on  his  own  turpitude,  by  making  a 
wrong  use  of  his  liljerty,  and  by  making  his  election  to  evil  instead 
of  good,  when  both  lay  open  before  him,  at  his  own  choice. 
Therefore,  if  he  would  pursue  evil  instead  of  good,  he  had  none 
to  blame  but  himself:  the  Lord  would  be  dear,  and  his  faithful 
servants  would  be  clear ;  his  blood  will  be  upon  his  own  head. 

f^ifth  day.  Attended  our  preparative  meeting.  My  exercise 
and  testimony  led  to  show  the  excellency  and  necessity  of  silence 
toman,  in  all  his  attempts  to  approach  the  divine  Being  in  solemn 
spiritual  worship  ;  not  only  the  body  but  also  the  mind  must  be 
silenced,  according  to  that  saying  of  the  prophet,  "  Be  still  and 
know  that  I  am  God  ;"  with  which  the  testimony  of  Christ  well 
agrees,  where  he  assures  his  disciples,  "  That  he  is  the  vine,  and 
they  are  the  brandies ;  and  except  the  branch  abide  in  the  vine 
it  withereth,"  and  that  "without  him  they  can  do  nothing."  As 
it  is  the  sap  from  the  vine  that  can  only  quicken  and  vivify  the 
branch  ;  so  nothing  short  of  the  will,  life  and  jwwer  of  the  Crea- 
tor, spiritually  dispensed  to  tlie  creature,  can  enable  him  to  perform 
worship  in  spirit  and  in  truth.  For  nothing  but  man's  assmning 
an  independent  will,  in  opposition  to  the  divine  will,  and  becoming 
active  therein,  occasioned  his  fall  and  separation  from  his  Maker  ; 
so  likewise  nothing  but  a  renunci;ition  of  that  will,  and  a  cessa- 
tion from  all  self-aclivity  as  an  indt!pendent  creature,  can  unite 
and  restore  him  again,  or  enable  him  to  worship  in  spirit  and  in 
truth. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


First  day,  the  14th.  Having  not  fully  performed  my  contem- 
plated visit  to  our  neighbouring-  towns  and  villages,  and  way 
opening  for  a  further  procedure,  I  attended  two  appointed  meet- 
ings to-day,  one  in  the  morning  at  Cold  Spring,  and  the  other  at 
the  fourth  hour  in  the  afternoon  at  Huntington.  Both  these  were 
pretty  full  meetings,  in  which  my  exercise  was  laborious,  but  I 
had  a  hope  they  were  profitable  meetings  to  some  present.  I 
returned  home  in  the  evening. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  monthly  meeting,  at  which  we  had 
the  company  of  a  Friend  from  Pennsylvania.  His  plain  hvely 
testimony,  together  with  his  company  and  solid  deportment,  did 
my  heart  good,  as  it  brought  to  my  remembrance  some  of  our 
primitive  worthies. 

Sixth  day.  I  attended  the  funeral  of  our  friend  Jacob  Smith 
of  Westbury.  His  death  was  very  sudderi  and  unexpected, 
which  -made  it  the  more  trying  to  his  family.  A  meeting  was 
held  on  the  occasion,  which  was  largely  attended  by  his  friends 
and  the  neighbouring  inhabitants.  The  opportunity  was  solemn 
and  instructive,  and  the  gospel  was  preached  in  the  demonstration 
of  the  spirit,  and  many  hearts  were  humbled  and  contrited. 
Thanks  be  to  God  for  his  unspeakable  gift. 

First  day,  the  21st.  I  proceeded  again  in  order  to  accomplish 
my  aforesaid  visit  to  the  neighbouring  towns  and  villages.  By 
previous  notice,  a  meeting  was  appointed  at  Cow  Harbour,  about 
twelve  miles  to  the  eastward,  at  the  fourth  hour  in  the  afternoon, 
at  the  house  of  a  person  by  the  name  of  Henry  Scudder,  which 
was  large  and  favoured.  The  five  following  days,  I  attended 
meetings  appointed  at  the  following  places,  viz :  at  Elias  Smith's, 
in  the  west  part  of  Smithtown,  on  second  day,  at  the  fourth  horn- 
in  the  afternoon  ;  at  the  Branch  on  third  day,  at  the  eleventh 
hour  -,  at  Stony  Brook,  on  fourth  day  at  eleven  o'clock  ;  at 
Setauket  on  the  same  day,  at  the  fourth  hour  in  the  afternoon ; 
on  fifth  day  had  one  at  a  place  called  the  Hopfrogs,  at  the  fourth 
hour  in  the  afternoon ;  on  sixth  day  at  the  eleventh  hour,  one 
near  Commack,  at  the  house  of  our  friend  Jacob  Harnad,  and  at 
the  fourth  hour,  had  our  last  meeting  in  this  town,  at  the  house 
of  Jonah  Wood,  at  Dixhills,    This  is  a  grandson  of  Jonah  Wood 


338 


JOURNAL  OP 


deceased,  who  resided  in  the  same  place,  where  I  often  had  meet- 
ings while  he  was  living.  He  was  a  man  convinced  of  the  prin- 
ciples of  Friends,  but  never  came  forward  to  join  the  society, 
which  I  apprehended  was  a  loss  to  himself  and  family.  These 
meetings  were  all  owned  by  the  Master  of  our  assemblies,  although 
great  weakness  and  ignorance  were  manifest  in  many  who 
attended,  nevertheless  the  Lord  was  graciously  pleased  to  conde- 
scend to  their  low  estates,  and  opened  my  mouth  in  doctrine  suited 
to  their  states  and  conditions.  I  returned  home  on  seventh  day, 
with  a  thankful  heart  and  a  peacefid  mind,  the  result  of  faithful- 
ness in  the  Lord's  work. 

First  day,  the  28th.  Attended  our  own  meeting,  which  I  sat 
the  greater  part  in  silence  ;  but  towards  the  close  had  a  short 
testimony  to  deliver,  which  was  introduced  by  the  remembrance 
of  the  account  given  by  the  evangelist  of  the  pool  of  Bethesda, 
and  our  Lord's  healing  the  impotent  man  who  had  long  waited 
there  to  be  healed,  but  was  not ;  tlierefore  our  Lord  had  compas- 
sion on  him,  and  healed  him.  This  shows  how  good  it  is  to 
have  a  steady  persevering  faith  and  hope  in  the  means  God 
appoints  for  our  salvation. 

Fifth  day.  A  silent  meeting.  The  rest  of  the  week  I  was 
busily  employed  in  the  oversight  of  my  hay  harvest,  and  in 
assisting  in  getting  it  into  the  barn ;  the  fields  having  brought 
forth  bountifully,  which  greatly  enhances  our  obligations  to  the 
benevolent  Giver. 

First  day,  the  5th  of  7th  month.  My  mind  in  our  meeting 
to-day,  was  humbled  under  an  awakened  sense  of  my  own 
imperfections,  and  the  impotency  of  our  common  nature.  In 
this  humiliated  state,  my  mind  became  clothed  with  the  spirit  of 
prayer  and  supplication,  wliich  gave  utterance  vocally  to  present 
a  petition  to  our  heavenly  Father  for  the  continuance  of  his 
mercy  ;  and  that  he  would  increase  our  faith  and  confident 
dependance  on  him,  as  our  only  source  of  help  and  salvation. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  preparative  meeting.  The  meeting 
for  worship  was  a  lively  meeting,  although  silent  or  nearly  so. 
The  diffusion  of  real  friendship  and  brotherly  love  was  warmly 
felt. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


339 


First  day,  the  12th.  I  sat  our  meeting  in  silence,  endeavour- 
ing to  be  edified  by  a  coninuinication  from  a  young  minister 
from  Cowneck,  which  was  sensible  and  in  a  good  degree  hvely. 
How  much  more  comfortable  it  is  to  sit  under  a  testimony  that 
comprehends  good  sense,  and  by  which  the  understanding  of  the 
people  is  spoken  to,  than  such  as  are  delivered  in  a  high  sound 
of  many  words,  and  yet  so  unconnected,  as  to  render  it  difficult  to 
comprehend  the  subject  matter  the  speaker  really  aims  at ;  or  such 
as  are  delivered  in  a  kind  of  prophetic  strain,  without  power,  which 
some  speakers  are  too  apt  to  fall  into ;  so  that  we  are  sometimes 
ready  to  doubt  their  call  to  that  highly  important  and  dignified 
office.  These  often  cause  deep  exercise  and  concern  to  the 
living  baptized  members. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  monthly  meeting,  at  which  the 
queries  were  read  and  the  usual  number  answered,  in  order  to 
represent  our  state  to  the  quarterly  meeting.  Tilings  appeared 
well  with  us,  if  the  answers  given  in,  were  a  true  representation 
of  our  state. 

First  day,  the  19(h.  I  was  again  made  an  example  of  silence. 
In  the  course  of  this  week  our  quarterly  meeting  was  held.  It  was, 
I  think,  in  the  main  a  favoured  season,  in  which  divine  goodness 
manifested  a  renewed  extension  of  unmerited  mercy  to  us  poor, 
helpless  and  unworthy  creatures.  We  had  at  this  quarterly 
meeting  the  company  of  our  esteemed  friend  Gerard  T.  Hop- 
kins from  Baltimore.  He  appeared  lively  in  his  gift,  to  our  mutual 
edification. 

It  fell  to  my  lot  in  the  meeting  for  discipline,  to  revive  the  con- 
cern for  the  melioration  of  the  condition  of  the  Africans  and  their 
descendants  ;  nut  only  as  it  icfipccted  those  who  are  still  held  in 
a  state  of  abject  bondage  and  oppression,  but  also  on  behalf  of 
those  who  have  been  set  free,  but  who,  nevertheless  continue,  in 
a  veiy  general  manner,  in  a  degraded  and  helpless  state,  for  want 
of  being  placed  upon  the  ground  of  equality  with  the  rest  of  the 
inhabitants,  as  strict  justice  would  dictate,  if  rightly  adhered  to 
by  the  people  and  government.  And  I  am  fully  in  the  belief, 
that  divine  justice  will  not  be  satisfied,  nor  the  black  stain  of 
shedding  innocent  blood  and  cruelly  oppressing  this  people, 


340 


JOURNAL  OF 


ever  be  taken  from  the  inhabitants  of  this  land,  until  strict  justice 
is  done  them,  and  they  placed  by  the  laws  of  our  country,  in 
the  same  state  of  equality  in  every  respect  as  the  rest  of  its 
inhabitants,  and  in  the  enjoyment  of  the  full  right  of  civilized 
man.  This  is  their  just  and  righteous  due,  and  these  privileges, 
if  duly  and  rightly  administered  to  them,  would  bring  them  to  be 
as  good  and  useful  citizens  as  those  of  any  other  nation. 

I  was  also  led  to  call  upon  my  Friends  to  persevere  in  this 
noble  and  righteous  concern,  that  nothing  might  be  left  undone 
on  our  part,  in  restoring  strict  justice  and  right  to  this  deeply 
oppressed  part  of  our  fellow  creatures  ;  not  only  on  their  account 
and  for  their  relief,  but  on  our  own  account  also.  For,  I  believe, 
we  are  in  a  very  pecuhar  manner  called  upon,  agreeably  to  our 
profession,  of  being  led  and  guided  by  an  unerring  principle  of 
perfect  righteousness,  to  exalt  the  standard  of  truth  and  righ- 
teousness in  the  earth  :  and  believing,  as  I  do,  that  it  is  not  in 
the  power  and  wisdom  of  man  to  effect  this,  by  all  the  coercive 
laws  which  can  be  enacted,  nor  by  all  the  force  of  the  arm  of 
flesh.  For  nothing  can  destroy  and  put  an  end  to  sin  and  wick- 
edness, but  a  principle  in  man  of  perfect  righteousness  and  jus- 
tice ;  and  this  adhered  to  by  man  in  so  full  and  complete  a 
manner,  as  to  have  no  fellowship  or  communion,  either  immedi- 
ately or  remotely,  directly  or  indirectly,  with  any  acts  of  injustice 
or  oppression.  Hence,  I  believe,  that  if  we  as  a  people  were  faith- 
ful and  obedient  to  this  first  principle  of  our  profession,  we  should 
be  led  thereby  to  abstain  from  all  kinds  of  commerce  or  deaUngs 
in  the  produce  of  our  coimtry  or  elsewhere,  which  we  had  cause 
to  believe  originated  out  of,  or  through  the  medium  of,  the  labour 
of  slaves,  wrung  from  them  and  sold  by  their  tyrannical  masters. 
And  I  am  well  assured  that  nothing  short  of  such  an  exalted 
testimony  to  truth  and  righteousness  will  ever  put  a  full  end  to 
oppression  and  injustice;  and,  I  believe.  He  who  called  our  worthy 
predecessors  to  exalt  the  testimony  of  tixith  in  the  earth,  and  who 
is  still  calling  us  to  advocate  this  noble  cause,  is  looking  for  this 
testimony  of  strict  justice  and  righteousness  at  our  hands. 

O,  saith  my  soul !  that  we  as  a  people,  called  as  we  are  to 
be  a  light  to  the  world,  might  so  persevere  in  faithfulness  and 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


341 


obedience  to  the  teachings  and  inspirings  of  light  and  truth  in 
our  hearts,  by  which  we  should  be  enabled  to  unite  together  for 
the  exaltation  of  this  noble  testimony,  and  the  increase  of  the 
Messiah's  kingdom  of  truth,  righteousness,  and  peace  in  the  earth ; 
and  which  in  its  progression  will  break  down  and  dissolve  all 
the  kingdoms  of  this  world,  until  they  become  the  kingdoms  of 
our  Lord  and  of  his  Christ,  and  he  comes  to  reign  whose  right 
it  is. 

The  subject  spread  with  unusual  weight  over  the  meeting,  and 
many  brethren  appeared  deeply  affected  therewith,  and  divers 
came  forward  by  expression  to  encourage  its  progress,  and  to  stimu- 
late each  other  therein  ;  so  that  my  heart  was  truly  gladdened 
under  a  sense  of  the  prevalence  of  truth,  which  was  felt  to  preside 
in  the  meeting,  clearly  manifesting  that  the  concern  was  owned 
by  the  Head  of  the  Church. 

First  day,  the  26th.  A  silent  meeting  to-day.  Passed  this 
week  in  much  poverty  of  spirit,  accompanied  Avith  a  peaceful 
mind.    Sat  our  fifth  day  meeting  in  solemn  silence. 

First  day,  the  2d  of  8th  month.  Feeling  my  mind  disposed 
to  sit  with  Friends  in  their  meeting  at  Bethpage,  I  went  thither 
to-day  accompanied  by  my  wife.  Although  my  mind  felt  rather 
depressed  from  a  sense  of  the  low  state  of  things  among  them, 
yet  I  was  led  to  communicate  some  plain  things  ;  showing  that 
true  religion  did  not  consist  in  going  to  meetings  and  making  a 
profession  of  it,  but  in  works  of  real  righteousness,  and  in  a 
strict  and  daily  conformity  and  submission  to  the  cross,  and  a 
steady  obedience  to  the  law  of  the  spirit  of  life  in  Christ  Jesus, 
which  only  can  set  free  from  the  law  of  sin  and  death. 

Fifth  day.  A  silent  meeting  on  my  part.  The  rest  of  the 
week  I  was  taken  up  in  temporal  matters,  having  workmen  of 
various  kinds  to  overlook  and  assist,  even  at  times  to  a  degree  of 
wearisomeness ;  insomuch  that  was  it  not  from  the  calls  of  neces- 
sity and  duty,  I  should  endeavour  to  quit  them  all  and  be  free 
from  their  cumber  and  interi-uption ;  as  they  do  often  interfere 
with  better  concerns,  and  those  of  a  higher  and  more  excellent 
nature. 

First  day,  the  9tli.    A  silent  meeting 


342 


JOURNAL  OF 


Fifth  day.  Was  our  preparative  meeting.  Silence  was  my 
lot  in  the  meeting  for  worship. 

First  day,  the  16th.  Our  meeting  was  larger  than  usual  by 
the  attendance  of  strangers,  who  did  not  usually  attend.  Very 
soon  after  taking  my  seat,  my  mind  was  impressed  with  a  view 
of  the  baneful  tendency  of  pride,  and  its  hurtful  effects  on  the 
children  of  men  universally.  The  prospect  led  to  communica- 
tion, and  opened  into  a  pretty  full  testimony,  tendering  and  hum- 
bling many  minds.  May  it  fasten  as  a  nail  in  a  sure  place,  that, 
so  it  may  continue  in  remembrance  for  many  days  and  bring 
forth  fruit,  is  my  fervent  prayer. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  monthly  meeting.  In  the  meeting 
for  worship  I  renewed  the  example  to  silence. 

First  day,  the  23d.  In  the  course  of  our  meeting,  my  mind 
was  led  into  a  view  of  the  necessity  of  the  cross,  consistent  with 
that  saying  of  the  lip  of  truth  :  "  If  any  man  will  come  after  me, 
let  him  deny  himself  and  take  up  his  cross  and  follow  me."  The 
subject  spread  and  led  to  the  necessity  of  communication,  in 
which  the  way  and  work,  and  its  effect  upon  the  man  of  sin  or  self, 
was  opened ;  showing  that  when  the  cross  is  submitted  to  and 
borne,  the  transgressing  nature  in  us  is  reduced  and  subjected 
by  the  operation  of  its  power,  through  which  true  liberty  is 
known,  and  the  captive  soul  set  free,  and  made  to  rejoice  on  the 
banks  of  deliverance. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  meeting  in  silence.  In  the  after- 
noon attended  the  funeral  of  a  man  inclined  to  Friends,  at  which 
there  was  a  large  collection  of  people  of  various  professions.  My 
mouth  was  opened  to  testify  among  them  of  the  things  concern- 
ing the  kingdom  of  heaven,  and  to  open  the  way  of  Ufe  and 
salvation  to  the  people,  and  the  only  means  by  which  it  ever  was 
or  can  be  effected,  viz :  by  the  grace  of  God  or  light  of  tmth, 
revealed  in  the  hearts  and  consciences  of  men  and  women,  as  a 
swift  witness  against  all  manner  of  sin  and  iniquity.  Life  sprang 
up  and  the  gospel  Avas  preached  in  the  demonstration  of  the 
spirit,  wherewith  many  were  affected  and  edified. 

First  day,  the  30th.  The  consideration  of  the  great  advan- 
tages which  would  result  to  the  childien  of  men,  were  they  pos- 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


318 


sessed  of  right  ideas,  and  a  right  understanding  of  the  divine 
character  opened  to  an  exercise  and  concern,  from  an  impressive 
belief  that  there  was  a  great  shortness  in  that  respect,  even  among 
professing  Christians  in  a  general  way ;  and  a  great  want  of  a 
right  improvement  of  the  talent  or  talents  dispensed  by  our  gra- 
cious Creator  to  his  creature  man,  or  that  manifestation  of  the 
spirit  given  to  every  man  to  profit  withal.  For  this,  if  rightly 
improved,  would  bring  us  to  know  and  witness  the  true  and 
saving  knowledge  of  God,  and  give  us  right  ideas  of  the  divine 
character ;  and  by  which,  if  rightly  adhered  to,  our  salvation 
would  be  effected.  I  was  led  to  communicate  on  the  subject, 
which  brought  a  very  coiTifortable  solemnity  over  the  meeting. 

Fifth  day,  the  3d  of  9th  month.    A  silent  meeting  to-day. 

First  day,  the  6th.  Having  for  some  days  past  felt  drawings 
on  my  mind  to  attend  Friejids'  meeting  at  Westbury,  and  way 
opening  for  it  to-day,  I  went  thither  accompanied  by  my  wife. 
It  was  rather  a  trying  exercising  season  in  the  forepart,  but  towards 
the  close  my  spirit  was  set  at  liberty,  and  an  opening  presented, 
attended  with  life  ;  in  which  I  was  led  to  open  and  show  to  those 
present,  the  necessity  of  an  entire  renunciation  of  self,  in  order  to 
come  to  a  saving  knowledge  of  God,  and  a  qualification  to  wor- 
ship him  in  spirit  and  in  truth ;  and  of  an  entire  cessation  from  all 
our  own  willings  and  runnings,  both  in  body  and  spirit  and  in 
thought.  Although  this  is  an  attainment  which  man  cannot  arrive 
at  by  the  dint  of  his  own  sufficiency,  yet,  nevertheless  he  may, 
by  a  right  faith  in  God  and  in  the  sufficiency  of  his  power. 
Therefore  we  ought  not  to  let  in  discouragement  from  a  sense 
of  our  own  impotent  state,  but  continue  to  strive  to  enter  in  at 
the  straight  gate  of  self-abasement  and  renunciation,  and  peree- 
vere  therein,  leaving  the  rest  to  the  Lord ;  and  then,  no  doubt, 
we  may  be  brought  to  the  experience  of  one  formerly  who  exclaim- 
ed: "Thou  wilt  ordain  peace  for  us,  for  thou  also  hast  wrought 
all  our  works  in  us." 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  meeting  as  usual  when  at  home.  I 
was  much  cumbered  in  the  forepart  of  the  meeting  with  unprofita- 
ble thoughts,  such  as  relate  to  our  temporal  concerns.  For  these 
produce  poverty  of  spirit  m  religious  meetings,  and  ought  to  be 


344 


JOURNAL  OF 


Strove  against  in  order  to  obtain  a  release  from  them :  and,  although 
it  is  what  we  cannot  do  in  our  own  time  and  strength,  yet  as  we 
continue  to  strive  and  do  not  give  over  the  struggle,  but  persevere 
in  faith  and  patience  to  obtain  the  blessing,  as  Jacob  did  when 
he  wrestled  with  the  angel,  we  shall  witness  an  overcoming  in 
the  Lord's  time  and  strength,  and  know  our  Ught  to  rise  out  of 
obscurity,  and  our  darkness  to  be  as  noonday.  Then  are  we 
qualified  to  worship  the  Father  in  spirit  and  in  truth,  in  the 
beauty  of  holiness,  and  nothing  can  hinder  or  let.  Then  can 
we  do  the  Lord's  work  with  a  willing  heart  agreeably  to  his  will, 
without  the  fear  or  favour  of  mortals.  We  can  then  minister,  if 
called  thereto,  in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  accompanied 
with  power,  which  causes  it  to  be  instructive  and  edifying  to  the 
hearers. 

First  day,  the  13th.  My  mind,  as  I  sat  in  our  meeting  to-day, 
was  led  under  exercise  from  the  remembrance  of  the  following 
passage  of  Isaiah  :  "  Look  unto  me  and  be  ye  saved,  all  ye  ends 
of  the  earth ;  for  I  am  God,  and  there  is  none  else."  I  was 
largely  opened  on  the  subject,  and  as  I  communicated,  truth  was 
raised  into  dominion ;  whereby  the  minds  of  many  were  hum- 
bled and  contrited,  the  meeting  generally  solemnized  and  edified, 
and  sweet  peace  afforded  me  in  the  labour. 

Fifth  day.  This  was  the  time  of  our  monthly  meeting.  We 
had  the  company  of  our  friend  William  Rickman  from  England, 
now  on  a  religious  visit  in  this  country.  Having  felt  my  mind 
drawn  for  some  considerable  time  past,  to  make  a  visit  in  the  love 
of  the  gospel,  to  Friends  in  the  compass  of  our  yearly  meeting, 
with  a  view  also  to  appoint  some  meetings  among  those  of  other 
persuasions,  it  appeared  right  to  spread  the  concern  before  my 
Friends  at  this  time;  who,  after  due  consideration,  united  with 
me  therein,  and  directed  the  clerk  to  furnish  me  with  a  minute 
of  concurrence  with  my  prospect,  leaving  me  at  hberty  to  pursue 
it  as  truth  might  open  the  way. 

Fifth  day,  the  24th.  A  quiet  sUent  meeting.  On  seventh  day 
I  attended  the  funeral  of  a  young  Friend,  a  kinsman,  who,  for 
more  than  a  year  previous  to  his  dissolution,  had  been  in  a 
dechning  state  of  health.  There  was  a  large  collection  of  Friends 


KLIAS  HICKS. 


345 


unci  neighbours  on  the  occasion.  Tlie  corpse  was  taken  into 
the  meeting-house,  and  a  meeting  held  before  it  was  interred, 
wliich  is  mostly  the  case  among  Friends  in  this  part  of  the 
society.  It  proved  a  very  exercising  season  in  the  forepart, 
and  although  divers  ministers  were  present,  yet  all  seemed  shut 
from  any  communication,  until  the  meeting  seemed  drawing  to 
a  conclusion,  when  my  mind  was  set  at  liberty  from  its  bonds, 
and  a  degree  of  light  arose  and  dispelled  the  darkness,  in  which 
I  was  led  to  open  the  cause  and  ground  of  the  prevailing  dark- 
ness which  had  been  so  generally  spread  over  us ;  and  to 
show  that  it  was  owing  to  the  people's  living  too  much  to  self, 
and  serving  self,  when  (hey  ought  more  faithfully  to  serve  the 
Lord  and  hve  unto  him.  I  was  led,  in  a  brief  way,  in  a  close, 
searching  testimony,  which  I  hope  will  have  its  use,  at  least  with 
some  present. 

First  day,  the  27th.  In  our  meeting  to-day,  my  mind  was 
largely  opened  into  the  substance  of  things  referred  to  by  the 
shadows  and  symbols  of  the  law,  or  outvvaid  dispensation.  As 
the  prospect  spread  and  enlarged,  I  found  it  necessary  to  spread  it 
before  the  assembly,  and  to  show  the  cUfference  between  the  law 
state  and  that  of  the  gospel,  and  that  as  the  shadows  and  symbols 
(rf  the  outward  law  dispensation,  stood  and  consisted  in  real  essen- 
tial and  substantial  things,  suited  to  our  outward  nature  and  life  ; 
so  likewise  the  substance  of  those  shadows,  as  they  were  intended 
to  point  to  spiritual  things,  must  also  consist  in  real,  essential  and 
substantial  things,  suited  to  our  inward  and  spiritual  nature  and 
hfe,  and  therefore  of  course  all  the  shadows  of  the  law  are  at  an 
end,  where  the  gospel  state  is  known  and  experienced.  It  was  a 
season  of  favour,  and  renewedly  strengthening  to  my  mind,  and 
I  believe,  instructive  and  edifying  to  many  present.  Thanks  be 
given  to  Israel's  Shepherd,  for  his  continued  mercy.  r 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  preparative  meeting,  at  which  the 
queries  were  read,  and  answers  given  to  the  usual  five,  to  go 
to  the  quarterly  meetings  and  I  thought,  from  the  tenour  of  the 
answers,  if  correct,  we  were  a  favoured  people. 

First  day,  the  11th.  Our  meeting  was  large,  in  which  the  gos- 
pel axe  was  laid  close  to  the  root  of  the  cornipt  tree ;  showing  that 

44 


346 


JOURNAL  OP 


every  tiee  which  did  not  bring  forth  good  fruit  iriust  be  hewn 
down,  let  it  liave  ever  so  specious  an  outward  appearance. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  monthly  meeting,  at  which  answers 
to  the  queries  were  produced  from  the  preparative  meetings. 
Although  I  feared  the  answers  from  our  preparative  meeting  made 
us  appear  more  correct  than  we  really  were,  yet  those  from  the 
other  branch  of  the  monthly  meeting  were  still  more  perfect,  and 
although  I  felt  some  doubting,  yet  a  degree  of  gladness  attended 
in  a  hope  that  we  were  improving. 

After  this  meeting,  nothing  in  paj  ticular  transpired,  until  I  pro- 
ceeded on  my  intended  journey,  which  was  on  the  21st  of  10th 
month,  1818,  and  fourth  day  of  the  week.  Samuel  Willis,  a 
member  of  our  meeting,  and  an  elder,  joined  me  as  a  companion.' 
We  proceeded  to  Flushing,  in  order  to  attend  our  quarterly  meet- 
ing, which  opened  with  a  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders  at  the 
tenth  hour.  The  next  day  was  the  meeting  for  discipline,  and 
the  day  following  a  public  meeting  for  worship.  Through  the 
condescending  goodness  of  the  Shepherd  of  Israel,  the  several 
seasons  were  truly  comfortable,  instructive  and  edifying,  in  which 
the  power  of  truth  was  exalted  over  all  opposition,  to  the  praise 
of  Him  who  is  calling  us  to  glory  and  virtue. 

From  Flushing  we  proceeded  to  Newtown,  on  sixth  day  after- 
noon, and  attended  a  pubUc  meeting  in  the  evening,  of  those 
belonging  to  other  societies. 

The  next  day  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  in  Friends'  meet- 
ing-house at  the  Kilns,  and  another  in  the  evening  at  Brooklyn, 
generally  composed  of  those  not  in  membership  with  us,  and 
many  not  in  strict  fellowship  with  any  rehgious  society.  And  we 
had  thankfully  to  acknowledge,  that  He  who  opens  and  none  can 
shut,  was  graciously  near  for  our  help,  and  opened  doctrine  suited 
to  the  states  of  those  who  attended  in  the  several  opportunities,  to 
the  peace  and  comfort  of  my  own  mind,  and,  I  trust,  to  the 
instruction  and  edification  of  the  people. 

From  thence  we  proceeded  to  New- York,  and  attended  the 
meetings  in  the  city,  on  first  day.  They  were  large  :  many  not 
in  profession  with  us  came  in,  as  previous  information  had  been 
given  of  our  intention  to  be  there.    The  gospel  was  freely 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


347 


preached  among  them  in  both  opportunities,  particularly  that  at 
Pearl-street,  wherein  truth  was  raised  into  dominion  over  all. 

On  second  day  we  attended  a  meeting  by  appointment  at  West- 
Chester,  which  was  also  a  precious  edifying  opportunity.  After 
tliis  we  proceeded  to  Purchase,  in  order  to  attend- the  quarterly 
meeting  at  that  place,  which  opened  the  next  day  at  tlie  eleventh 
hour,  and  continued  three  days.  The  meeting  for  discipline  Avas 
well  conducted,  in  which  I  was  led  to  call  upon  Friends,  to  rally 
to  our  standard,  the  light  within,  which  is  a  principle  of  perfect 
rectitude  and  justice,  and  if  rightly  attended  to,  will  lear".  us  to 
withdraw  from  all  kind  of  conduct  and  commerce,  which  is  Mn 
the  least  degree  tinged  with  injustice  and  oppression.  Ant^in  a 
particular  manner  from  a  commerce  in,  and  the  use  of,  articles 
which  are  the  product  of  the  labour  of  slaves ;  the  injustice  of 
which  was  clearly  opened  and  brought  home  to  Friends'  minds, 
showing  them  that  notliing  short  of  a  principle  of  immutable  jus- 
tice, which  may  so  pervade  the  minds  of  mankind,  as  not  to  have 
any  intercourse  with  the  oppressor,  in  the  produce  of  the  labour 
of  the  oppressed,  will  ever  be  sufficient  fully  to  suppress  that 
monstrous  evil,  and  put  a  final  end  thereto.  It  was  a  very 
solemn  season.  The  meeting  for  worship  was  Ukewise  favoured, 
in  .which  the  divine  presence  was  witnessed  for  our  help  and 
comfort. 

The  four  following  days  we.attended  meetings  at  North  Castle, 
Salem,  Oblong  and  the  Branch.  These  were  all  large  for  the 
places,  and  favoured  with  the  overshadowing  of  heavenly  regard, 
in  which  ability  was  received  to  preach  the  gospel,  in  the  demon- 
stration of  the  spirit,  and  wisdom  afforded  to  divide  the  word  to 
the  different  states  of  those  present.  Each  meeting  was  com- 
posed of  a  variety  of  professions  and  conditions ;  and  such  was 
the  gracious  condescension  of  the  Shepherd  of  Israel,  as  not  to 
send  any  away  empty,  if  they  were  willing  to  receive  the  portion 
justly  allotted  them ;  and  if  they  refuse,  l^ecause  it  is  not  agreeable 
to  their  own  inclinations,  the  Lord  will  be  clear,  and  his  faithful 
servants  will  be  clear ;  and  if  they  are  not  saved,  their  blood  will 
be  upon  their  own  heads.  These  several  seasons  were  comforta- 
ble and  encouraging  to  the  honest-hearted,  and  strengthening  to 


348 


JOURNAL  OF 


my  exercised  mind ;  a  sense  of  which  filled  my  heart  with  grati- 
tude and  thanksgiving  to  the  blessed  Author  of  all  our  mercies. 

After  these  meetings  we  proceeded  to  Nine  Partners.  On  third 
day,  the  3d  of  11th  month,  their  quarterly  meeting  came  on. 
The  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders  opened  at  the  tenth  hour, 
and  the  meeting  for  discipline  the  next  day.  These  were  both 
profitable  instructive  meetings  to  many  present,  in  which  way 
opened  fully  to  relieve  my  own  mind  ;  and  I  felt  sweet  peace  in 
my  labours  of  love  among  them. 

The  three  following  days  we  attended  the  quarterly  meeting  at 
Stanford.  I  had  but  little  active  service  in  the  meeting  of  Minis- 
ters and  Elders,  yet  I  found  it  my  place  to  remind  Friends  of  the 
danger  and  bad  effects  of  covering  or  hiding,  and  of  the  advantage 
of  laying  ourselves  open  to  the  just  witness,  and  of  entering  into 
an  individual  investigation,  when  answering  the  queries,  lest  we 
overlook  some  things  even  in  ourselves,  and  so  make  our  answers 
more  clear  than  truth  and  equity  will  warrant.  And  when  the 
answers  to  the  queries  came  to  be  read,  I  thought  there  was  occa- 
sion for  the  caution,  as  their  answers  were  generally  full  and 
clear. 

In  the  meeting  for  discipline,  I  was  led  to  call  Friends'  atten- 
tion to  the  fundamental  principle  of  our  profession ;  and  to  show 
the  drift  and  design  of  those  precious  testimonies,  as  good  fruit 
naturally  emanated  from  a  good  tree  ;  especially  those  two,  the 
most  noble  and  dignified,  viz :  against  war  and  slavery.  And 
whether  while  we  were  actively  paying  taxes  to  civil  government 
for  the  purpose  of  promoting  war  or  warlike  purposes  in  any 
degree,  we  were  not  balking  our  testimony  in  that  respect ;  and 
pulling  down  with  one  hand,  what  we  are  pretending  to  build 
with  the  other.  And  in  like  manner  with  regard  to  slavery.  For 
although  we  had  freed  our  own  hands  from  holding,  by  active 
force,  any  of  this  oppressed  people,  the  Africans  and  their  descend- 
ants, in  unconditional  slavery  ;  yet,  whether  so  long  as  we  volun- 
tarily and  of  choice,  are  engaged  in  a  commerce  in,  and  the  free 
use  of  the  fruits  of  their  labour,  wrested  from  them  by  the  iron 
hand  of  oppression,  through  the  medium  of  their  cruel  and  unjust 
masters,  we  are  not  accessary  thereto,  and  are  partakers  in  the 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


349 


unrighteous  traffic  of  dealing  in  our  fellow  creatures,  and  in  a 
great  measure  lay  waste  our  testimony  against  slavery  and 
oppression.  These  subjects  were  largely  opened,  and  the  incon- 
sistency of  such  conduct  placed  before  the  minis  of  Friends ; 
accompanied  with  strong  desires,  that  they  might  have  their 
proper  effect,  in  convincing  them  of  the  unrighteousness  of  such 
conduct. 

The  meeting  for  worship,  or  closmg  meeting,  was  mostly  made 
up  of  such  as  were  not  members.  It  was  a  favoured,  solemn 
meeting,  and,  I  trust,  instructive  and  comfortable  to  rhany  pre- 
sent; as  it  was  to  the  satisfaction  and  peace  of  my  own  mind. 

First  day,  the  8th  of  11th  month.  We  returned  and  attended 
the  meeting  at  Nine  Partners.  As  notice  was  given  of  our  inten- 
tion of  attending  it,  it  was  very  large  ;  the  house  was  filled  with 
a  mixed  company  of  various  professions,  besides  Friends.  I  was 
largely  led  forth  among  them,  to  declare  of  the  things  concerning 
the  kingdom  of  God.  Truth  was  raised  into  dominion,  and 
a  precious  solemnity  spread  over  the  assembly.  May  all  the 
praise  be  ascribed  to  the  Shepherd  of  Israel,  for  the  unmerited 
favour. 

In  the  course  of  this  week,  after  resting  on  second  and  third 
days,  in  which  time  I  visited  some  of  my  relatives,  we  attended 
meetings  at  Chestnut  Ridge,  Apoquaguc,  Beekman,  and  Oswego. 
These  meetings  were  generally  well  attended,  and  were,  I  trust, 
profitable  and  instructive  to  many  who  attended  them. 

First  day,  the  1.5th.  I  attended  West  Branch  meeting  in  the 
morning,  and  that  at  Pleasant  Valley  in  the  evening.  They 
were  both  very  crowded  gatherings.  At  the  latter  meeting,  there 
were  many  more  than  the  house  could  contain,  composed,  princi- 
pally of  such  as  were  not  in  membership  with  Friends,  being  of 
the  varied  religious  prof(!ssions  common  among  us ;  and  many 
who  were  not  in  strict  fellowship  with  any.  At  such  seasons, 
where,  of  course,  there  must  be  a  great  variety  of  states  and  con- 
ditions, I  have  found  it  necessary  to  dw<?ll  deep,  and  wait  patiently 
for  the  arising  of  the  pure  spring  of  gospel  ministry,  which  alone 
can  enable  and  qualify  to  divide  the  word  aright,  so  that  each 
may  have  his  due  portion,  and  be  spoken  to  in  his  own  language ; 


350  JOURNAL  OF 

a  language  which  sets  home  the  truth  to  every  mind,  as  was  the 
case  on  the  day  of  Pentecost. 

On  second  day  evening,  we  had  a  very  large  meeting  in 
Poughkeepsie.  It  was  held  in  their  court-house,  which  was  a 
very  commodious  room  for  the  purpose,  being  well  seated,  and  was 
thought  sufficient  to  hold  nearly  a  thousand  people.  It  was  much 
crowded,  and  proved  a  very  solemn,  quiet  opportunity,  in  which 
truth  had  the  dominion. 

The  five  succeeding  days,  we  attended  a  large  meeting  by 
appointment  at  Crumelbow,  the  monthly  meetings  of  Oswego, 
Nine  Partners,  Creek,  and  Stanford.  In  all  these  meetings  I 
had  good  service  ;  the  several  opportunities  being  favoured  with 
the  overshadowings  of  heavenly  regard. 

First  day,  the  22d.  We  had  a  very  crowded  meeting  at 
Little  Nine  Partners.  The  next  day  we  were  at  an  appointed 
meeting,  in  Friends'  meeting-house,  in  the  town  of  Northeast, 
which  was  Hkewise  a  very  full  meeting.  In  both  of  these  the 
gospel  was  freely  preached,  and  its  doctrines  largely  opened, 
and  set  home  to  the  minds  of  the  people ;  and  the  fallacy  and 
and  emptiness  of  all  formal  and  ceremonial  religion  exposed,  and 
the  people  pressingly  invited  to  gather  inward,  to  the  immutable 
principle  of  light  and  truth  in  their  own  souls,  as  the  sure  rock 
of  ages,  and  the  only  means  whereby  we  can  be  enabled  to 
work  out  our  salvation.  The  Lord's  power  was  fell  eminently 
to  preside  in  those  solemn  assemblies,  to  the  praise  of  his  gieat 
and  excellent  name,  who  is  over  all  worthy  for  ever ;  and  I  parted 
with  them  in  true  peace  of  mind,  the  sure  result  of  faithfulness. 

On  third  day  we  rode  to  Canaan,  a  town  in  Connecticut,  and 
the  next  day  had  an  appointed  meeting  there,  with  the  few 
Friends  at  that  place,  and  some  of  their  neighbours.  It  was  a 
comfortable,  instructive  season.  The  following  day  we  had 
another  meeting  by  appointment,  in  an  adjacent  neighbourhood 
which  was  held  in  a  school-house.  This  was  also  a  favoured 
meeting.  Divers  present  were  much  broken  and  contrited,  and 
truth  reigned  over  all. 

On  sixth  day  we  proceeded  to  Hartford,  and  on  seventh  day 
evening  had  an  appointed  meeting  in  the  city.   It  was  held  in  a 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


351 


meeting-house,  belonging  to  the  Presbyterians ;  as  there  were 
only  two  or  three  members  of  our  society  in  the  place.  The 
meeting  was  small,  occasioned,  as  I  supposed,  by  the  inclemency 
of  the  weather,  and  want  of  proper  notice ;  nevertheless  the  divine 
presence  was  felt  to  preside,  and  truth  was  declared  among  them 
in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit ;  and  I  parted  with  them,  under 
a  thankful  sense  of  the  Lord's  mercy. 

The  next  day,  being  the  first  of  the  week,  we  attended  Friends' 
meeting  at  West  Hartford.  This  was  likewise  very  small.  Friends 
being  but  few  in  number  in  that  place,  and  those  mostly  appeared 
in  a  lukewarm  state  ;  and  I  appreliendcd  they  had  taken  but  little 
care  to  inform  their  neighbours  of  our  intention  to  be  there,  al- 
though we  had  seasonably  requested  them  so  to  do.  Such  conduct 
manifests  great  insensibility,  and  want  of  regard  for  their  friends 
who  have  left  all  their  outward  enjoyments,  for  the  promotion  of 
the  gospel,  and  the  religious  improvement  of  the  people  ;  and  are 
going  up  and  down  in  travail  and  labour,  as  with  their  lives  in 
their  hands,  as  truth  leads  the  way  ;  and  yet,  Friends  whom 
they  visit  in  some  places,  either  think  it  too  much  trouble,  or  are 
so  vmconcerned  as  to  take  little  or  no  care  to  give  their  neighbours 
notice  ;  a  sense  of  which  caused  me  to  take  leave  of  my  Friends 
at  this  place  with  a  heavy  heart. 

From  thence,  on  second  day,  we  proceeded  to  Woodbury,  and 
put  up  at  the  house  of  a  person  of  the  Methodist  society,  where 
-we  had  a  large  meeting  the  next  evening  with  the  neighbouring 
inhabitants,  composed  of  Methodists,  Episcopalians,  Presbyterians 
and  some  others,  not  in  strict  fellowship  with  any  religious 
society.  It  was  a  very  solemn,  favoured  meeting,  in  which  the 
Lord's  presence  and  power  were  felt  eminently  to  preside ;  and 
many  hearts  were  broken  and  contrited,  and  manifested  much 
satisfaction  with  the  opportunity,  especially  the  man  at  wl\ose 
house  we  were,  who  in  much  brokenness  of  spirit,  and  with  gra- 
titude and  thankfulness  of  heart,  acknowledged  the  favour. 

The  next  morning,  after  a  tendering  opportunity  in  the  family, 
we  took  leave  of  them  in  mutual  affection,  and  rode  to  Middlesex, 
upwards  of  forty  miles.  Here  we  lodged  with  our  kind  friend 
Samuel  Whiting,  who,  with  his  affectionate  wife  and  children, 


352 


JOURNAL  OF 


received  us  with  mai  ks  of  true  friendship,  which  is  a  hrook  by 
the  way  to  tlie  weaiy  traveller ;  and  which  was  our  case  at  this 
time.  What  added  further  to  our  comfort,  was  the  readiness  of 
mind  and  concern  they  manifested,  in  giving  their  neighbours 
information  of  our  intention  to  attend  their  meeting  the  next 
day,  which  we  accordingly  did.  The  Lord  graciously  conde- 
scended to  open  my  mouth  among  them,  in  a  hving,  powerful 
testimony  to  the  truths  of  the  gospel.  It  was  a  season  of  great 
favour.  May  the  word  preached  not  return  void,  but  accomplish 
that  to  which  it  was  sent,  is  the  fervent  desire  of  my  spirit. 

After  this  solemn  meeting  we  proceeded  on  our  journey,  and 
rode  that  afternoon  to  our  friend  Charles  Field's,  at  a  place  called 
the  Saw  Pitts.  Here  we  had  a  meeting  the  next  day  at  the 
eleventh  hour.  There  is  but  one  family  of  Friends  in  this  vil- 
lage, the  Friend  and  his  family  above  named,  and  one  other 
member.  The  inhabitants  consist  of  the  various  professions 
common  among  us,  and  some  others  not  in  communion  with 
any  religious  society.  A  considerable  number  assembled,  with 
whom  we  had  a  very  solemn  instructive  opportimity,  to  the  com- 
fort and  peace  of  my  own  mind. 

The  evening  of  the  next  day,  we  had  a  precious  favoured 
meeting  at  Manhattanville  on  New- York  Island,  with  Friends 
of  that  place.  It  was  attended  by  a  considerable  number  of  the 
neighbouring  inhabitants,  who  conducted  themselves  very  soberly, 
suiting  the  occasion.  Many  hearts  were  broken  and  contrited^ 
and  we  parted  with  them  under  an  humbling  sense  of  the  Lord's 
goodness,  and  with  grateful  hearts  for  the  unmerited  favour. 

First  day,  the  6th  of  I2th  month.  We  rode  to  the  city.  As 
Friends  of  the  monthly  meeting  there  had  recently  opened  a 
new  meeting  in  the  eastern  part  of  the  town,  we  attended  it  both 
forenoon  and  afternoon.  And  as  notice  was  given  at  the  close 
of  the  forenoon  meeting  of  our  intention  to  attend  in  the  after- 
noon, it  was  a  full  meeting,  more  than  the  house  could  well 
contain.  These  were  both  memorable  meetings,  in  which  the 
Lord's  presence  and  power  were  manifested  in  an  eminent  degree, 
breaking  and  contriting  many  hearts,  and  truth  reigned  over  all. 
It  was  the  Lord's  doing,  and  marvellous  in  our  eyes,  that  he 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


353 


should  thus  condescend,  in  matchless  mercy,  to  notice  us  poor 
unworthy  creatures. 

At  evening,  we  had  a  very  large  meeting  by  appointment,  in 
Friends'  meeting-house  in  Pearl-street.  Although  I  was  much 
worn  down  Ijy  arduous  labour  in  the  three  foregoing  meetings,  yet 
I  was  strengthened  to  communicate  in  this,  in  a  fuU  plain  testi- 
mony, opening  to  the  people  the  danger  and  disadvantage  of 
resting  in  the  forms  and  empty  shadows  of  the  law  state ;  and 
continuing  in  the  traditions  and  ceiemonies  introduced  into  the 
professed  Christian  Churches,  in  the  time  of  the  apostacy  from 
primitive  simplicity;  and  the  hurtful  tendency  of  observing  days 
and  times,  like  the  carnally-minded  in  the  Galatian  Church  ;  for 
which  they  were  sharply  reprehended  by  the  apostle  Paul,  in  his 
epistle  to  that  Chinch.  The  people  were  very  quiet  and  attentive, 
and  a  precious  solemnity  was  spread  over  the  meeting,  which 
closed  in  a  solemn  manner.  Thanks  be  given  to  Israel's  unslum- 
bering  Shepherd  for  the  unmerited  favour. 

We  tarried  in  town  until  third  day,  in  order  to  attend  the 
meeting  for  sufferings  which  came  in  the  course  at  that  time. 
We  also  had  an  appointed  meeting  in  Liberty-street,  on  second 
day  evening.  It  was  pretty  well  attended,  in  which  I  was  led 
to  open  to  the  people  the  way  of  redemption  by  Christ,  the  only 
Mediator  between  God  and  man  ;  and  the  way  of  his  working 
in  man,  in  the  accomplis^hment  of  his  salvation.  I  also  opened 
to  them  the  emptiness  of  all  shadows  and  outward  ordinances, 
under  the  Christian  dispensation  ;  such  as  water  baptism,  and  the 
ordinance  called  the  supper  or  communion ;  also  the  hurtful 
tendency  of  observing  days  and  times,  such  as  a  seventh  day 
sabbath,  days  of  tlianksgiving,  and  fast  days  of  man's  appointing. 
They  were  shown  that  all  these  were  of  Jewish  or  Heathenish 
original,  being  a  part  of  the  law  dispensation,  and  of  course  ended 
with  it,  and  therefore  the  continuance  of  them  under  the  gospel 
dispensation  was  irrational,  non-essential,  and  contrary  to  tixith ; 
tending  to  keep  the  minds  of  Clu  istian  professors  under  the  veil 
of  carnal  ordinances,  and  greatly  retai  ded  the  progress  of  reforma- 
tion, and  the  advancement  of  real  Christianity.  I  was  led  to  use 
great  plainness  of  speech,  and  the  people  sat  very  quiet  and  atten- 

45 


354 


JOURNAL  OP 


live,  and  the  word  preached  appeared  to  have  free  course.  It 
was  a  highly  favoured  season,  and  the  honest-hearted  were  made 
to  rejoice,  under  an  humbhng  sense  of  the  Lord's  mercy,  and  I 
parted  with  them  in  true  peace  of  mind.  The  next  day,  after 
attending  the  meeting  for  sufferings,  we  rode  home  and  found 
our  families  well,  which  I  considered  as  an  additional  favour 
from  my  heavenly  Father,  whose  mercy  is  over  all  his  works. 

I  was  from  home  at  this  time  about  forty-nine  days,  and 
attended  forty-nine  meetings,  and  travelled  about  four  hundred 
and  fifty  miles. 


KLIA3  HICKS. 


355 


CHAPTER  XV. 

General  visit  to  Friends  of  the  yearly  meeting  of  New- York,  1810. 

I  CONTINUED  at  and  about  home,  until  the  conimcncement  of 
the  year  1819,  attending  our  meetings  as  they  came  in  course. 
I  also  attended  two  funerals,  at  which  I  had  good  service ;  and 
the  meeting  at  Westbury,  on  a  fust  day,  in  which  I  was  led  to 
open  to  Friends  the  tliree  princijial  rei|uisites  to  the  teing,  and 
well-teing,  of  a  Christian.  The  first  being  a  real  Iwlief  in  God 
and  Christy  as  one  iindivUh;d  essence,  known  and  believed  in, 
inwardly  and  spiritually.  Tlie  second,  a  complete  passive 
obedience  and  submission  to  the  divine  will  and  power  inwardly 
and  spiritually  manifested ;  which,  when  known,  brings  to  the 
Christian  state,  through  a  crucifixion  of  the  old  man,  with  all  his 
ungodly  deeds.  The  third,  in  order  for  the  })reservation  and  well- 
being  of  a  Christian,  it  is  necessary  that  (hey  often  meet  and 
assemble  together,  for  the  promotion  of  love  and  good  works,  and 
as  good  stewards  of  the  manifold  grace  of  God.  For  (his  purpose 
the  Lord's  people  and  children  have  been  led  by  liis  spirit  to 
appoint  times  and  seasons  in  which  to  present  themselves  before 
him.  Of  these  times,  all  being  apprized,  and  living  within  a 
reasonable  distance  of  (he  place  so  appointed,  it  becomes  their 
lK)unden  duty  to  attend,  in  order  to  wait  upon,  and  thereby 
Ijecoine  qualified  to  worship  God,  in  spirit  and  in  truth ;  and  no 
temporal  concern  of  the  greatest  magnitude  ought  to  be  consi- 
dered as  a  sufficient  excuse  for  omitting  this  great  and  necessary 
duty.  For  the  experience  of  many  ages  has  shown,  that  those 
who  suffer  their  temporal  business  to  divert  them  from  a  steady 
attendance  on  their  religious  meetings,  never  make  any  real  profi- 
ciency in  religion,  or  the  true  spiritual  life.    The  communication 


356 


JOURNAL  OP 


was  impressive,  and  reached  the  witness  in  many  minds,  and  truth 
was  exalted,  and  the  honest-hearted  comforted,  and  I  was  made 
glad  in  believing  that  my  labour  had  not  been  in  vain.  Such 
seasons  are  truly  worthy  of  grateful  remembrance.  " 

A8,  on  my  return  home,  I  did  not  feel  myself  released  from  a 
further  prosecution  of  my  concern,  and  visit  to  Friends  of  our 
yearly  meeting,  with  the  concurrence  of  my  friends,  I  retained 
the  minute  I  had  received  for  that  purpose,  and  on  the  2d  of  1st 
month,  1819,  I  again  left  home,  and  proceeded  in  the  engage- 
ment. My  son-in-law  Valentine  Hicks  joined  me  as  companion 
in  the  journey.  We  proceeded  to  New- York  ;  and,  the  next  day 
being  the  first  of  the  week,  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  at 
Pearl-street  in  the  morning.  After  this,  in  the  afternoon,  we  pro- 
ceeded on  our  iourney  as  far  as  our  friend  Thomas  Walker's,  at 
West  Farms,  near  West  Chester,  where  we  had  a  meeting,  at 
the  sixth  hour  in  the  evening.  On  second  day,  we  had  an 
appointed  meeting  at  Maraaroneck.  These  meetings  were  in  a 
good  degree  favoured,  in  which  the  presence  and  love  of  our 
heavenly  Father  were  felt  to  preside. 

On  third  day  we  had  another  opportunity,  by  appointment,  at 
White  Plains,  in  the  court-house.  It  was  rather  a  season  of  hard 
labour,  as  the  truths  communicated  did  not  appear  to  have  free 
course,  in  any  general  way ;  but,  I  trust,  some  were  instructed 
and  edified.  On  fourth  and  fifth  days,  we  attended  Friends' 
meetings  at  Purchase,  and  Shapaqua.  As  notice  was  given  of 
our  intention  to  attend  them,  they  were  large ;  and  through 
divine  condescension,  they  proved  seasons  of  favour,  in  which  the 
truths  of  the  gospel  were  largely  declared  in  the  demonstration  of 
the  spirit,  to  the  edification  of  the  assemblies,  and  peace  of  my 
own  mind. 

The  two  following  days  we  attended  meetings  at  Croton  Val- 
ley, and  Amawalk.  They  were  well  attended  by  Friends,  and 
some  others.  I  was  led  to  open  among  them  many  essential  doc- 
trines of  the  Christian  religion  ;  and  to  show  to  the  people,  in  the 
openings  of  truth,  the  way  and  means  by  which,  and  by  which 
only,  our  redemption  and  salvation  can  be  effected.  The  testi- 
monies had  a  very  reaching  effect  upon  the  auditories ;  many 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


357 


present  were  much  broken  and  contrited,  and  truth  was  raised 
into  victory,  and  a  precious  solemnity  was  spread  over  the  meet- 
ings, to  tlie  comfort  and  edification  of  tlie  honest-hearted,  which 
was  cause  of  thankfulness  and  gratitude  to  the  beneficent  Author 
of  all  our  mercies. 

First  day  the  10th.  We  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Croton 
in  the  morning,  and  at  Peekskill  in  the  evening.  Both  were  full 
meetings,  in  which  the  power  of  the  gospel  was  felt  to  preside, 
furnishing  with  wisdom  and  strength  to  divide  the  word,  to  the 
several  states  present,  in  a  way  which  seemed  to  give  each  his 
due  portion,  and  none  sent  empty  away,  but  those  who  refused  to 
take  their  own  part.  Many  hearts  were  broken  and  contrited, 
and  the  honest-hearted  comforted ;  and  the  Lord's  name  and 
power  praised  and  exalted  over  all,  who  is  worthy  for  ever. 

On  second  day  we  rode  to  Nine  Partners  ;  and  on  third  day 
evening  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Dover.  It  was  held  in  a 
pretty  large  school-house,  there  being  no  other  place  so  convenient 
in  the  neighbourhood  ;  but  it  was  too  small  to  contain  the  people 
who  assembled,  some  being  obliged  to  stand  without,  for  want  of 
room.    It  was  a  very  solemn,  instructive  meeting. 

On  fourth  day  we  attended  Pleasant  Valley  meeting ;  and 
notice  being  given  of  our  expectation  to  attend  it,  the  meeting 
was  large.  A  considerable  number  of  other  societies  were  present 
who  behaved  soberly,  consistent  with  tlie  occasion.  It  was  a 
season  of  great  favour,  under  a  sense  of  which  the  honest-hearted 
were  made  to  rejoice. 

After  this,  we  proceeded  to  Poughkeepsie,  and  attended  an 
appointed  meeting  in  the  evening,  at  the  sixth  hour.  It  was  held 
in  their  court-house,  a  large  convenient  room,  but  not  sufficient 
to  contain  the  people  who  assembled  ;  many  were  obliged  to 
withdraw  for  want  of  room.  It  proved,  through  (he  condescend- 
ing goodness  of  our  heavenly  Father,  a  blessed  meeting  to  myself, 
and,  we  had  cause  to  believe,  to  the  assembly  in  general.  Thanks 
be  to  God  for  his  unspeakable  gift :  yet  we  have  reason  to  beheve 
there  were  some  present  watching  for  evil,  as  carpers  and  oppo- 
sers,  if  we  may  judge  from  the  conduct  of  the  hireling  priests, 
since  I  was  there  a  few  weeks  before,  as  I  was  informed  at  this 


358 


JOURNAL  OF 


time,  tliat  they  had  joined  together  to  cahimuiate  me,  an  endea- 
vour to  lay  waste  the  testimony  I  then  had  to  bear.  We  tarried 
here  most  of  the  next  day,  visiting  some  of  oiu-  friends. 

On  sixth  day  we  proceeded  to  Hudson,  where  we  arrived  at 
evening.  The  following  evening,  we  had  an  ap]X)inted  meeting 
in  the  town  of  Claverack,  about  four  miles  distant  from  Hudson. 
The  inhabitants  were  mostly  Dutch ;  a  considerable  number 
attended,  and  behaved  pietty  sol^erly ;  and  way  opened  to  com- 
municate divers  truths  of  the  gospel,  in  a  clear  and  impressive 
manner  among  them,  to  which  they  paid  good  attention,  and 
appeared  to  be  generally  well  satisfied.  The  next  day,  being 
first  day,  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  in  Hudson,  and  an 
appointed  meeting  in  the  evening.  The  latter  was  very  large, 
more  than  the  house  could  contain.  These  were  favorned  meet- 
ings, in  which  I  was  largely  led  forth  in  testimony  to  the  truths 
of  the  Christian  religion,  setting  forth,  in  a  clear  manner,  the 
ground  and  source  from  whence  all  true  religion  and  true  wor- 
ship have  their  spring  and  oi  igin.  A  general  solenmity  prevailed, 
and  truth  was  raised  into  dominion  over  all. 

On  second  day,  we  pi  oceedeil  to  Kinderhook,  and  had  a  meet- 
ing in  the  evening  in  a  school-house,  and  on  third  day  afternoon, 
we  had  an  appointed  meeting  in  Spencertown.  These  were 
both  crowded  meetings,  mostly  made  up  of  the  different  societies 
common  among  us  ;  many  of  them  were  the  descendants  of 
the  old  Dutch  inhabitants,  not  much  acquainted  with  our  cus- 
toms and  order ;  yet  they  generally  behaved  soberly,  and 
gave  good  attention  to  (he  testimonies  liorne.  Many  gospel 
truths  were  opened  to  their  consideration,  and  the  Lord's  presence 
and  power  were  felt  to  crown  these  solemn  assemblies ;  and  I 
parted  from  them  in  true  peace  and  thankfulness  of  lieart. 

On  fourth  and  fifth  days,  we  attended  Friends'  meetings  at 
Kline  Kiln,  and  New  Britain.  In  both  of  these  meetings,  1  had 
good  service  for  truth  and  its  blessed  cause,  and  the  hurtful  ten- 
dency of  a  dependance  on  forms,  and  outward  ordinances  and 
cerenionies  in  reUgion  and  worship,  was  laid  open  and  exposed. 

On  sixtli  day,  we  proceeded  to  Troy,  \\  here  we  rested  on 
seventh  day,  and  wrote  to  our  families.     On  first  day,  we 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


359 


attended  Friends'  meetings  at  Troy,  both  forenoon  and  afternoon, 
and,  information  being  given  that  we  were  tliere,  they  were  large. 
At  tile  forenoon  meeting;  more  assembled  than  the  house  could 
contain  ;  and  that  gracious  Being,  who  never  leaves  lior  forsakes 
his  dejiendant  children,  whose  trust  is  fixed  on  him,  was  near  for 
our  lielp ;  and  opened  my  heart  and  mouth  in  bolli  meetings,  to 
declare  largely  of  the  things  concerning  the  kingdom  of  God,  and 
to  open  niany  gospel  truths  to  the  people,  and  to  show  the  fallacy 
and  hurtful  tendency  of  all  ceremonial  religion,  which  consists  in 
tlie  observance  of  days  and  times,  and  outward  ordinances.  The 
jieople  were  generally  attentive ;  and  I  found  solid  peace  in  my 
labours  of  love  among  them. 

On  second  day,  we  proceeded  to  Pittstown,  and  the  next  day 
had  a  meeting  appointed  there,  at  the  eleventh  lioin-,  which  was  a 
large,  favoured  meeting.  After  this  we  proceeded  to  White 
Creek,  and  attended  Friend's  meeting  as  it  came  in  course  the 
next  day ;  and,  information  being  given  that  we  were  there,  it 
was  largely  attended.  The  Lord's  presence  was  felt  to  preside, 
and  truth  was  raised  into  victory.  Oh  my  soul !  what  wilt  thou, 
or  canst  thou  render  unto  the  Lord,  for  all  his  benefits  ;  "  for  his 
mercies  are  new  every  morning,  and  great  is  his  faithfulness." 

On  fifth  day  we  attended  an  appointed  meeting  in  the  town  of 
Shaftsbury,  on  our  way  to  Danby.  In  this  place,  none  of  our 
society  reside,  except  one  female  member,  the  wife  of  a  well-dis- 
posed man,  at  whose  house  we  put  up,  and  were  very  hospitably 
entertained.  The  meeting,  although  small,  was  attended  by  the 
governor  of  the  state,  and  divers  of  the  judges  and  magistrates. 
It  was  a  season  of  favour ;  many  essential  doctrines  of  the  Chris- 
tian reUgion  were  opened  to  them,  in  the  demonstration  of  truth, 
and  I  parted  with  them  in  thankfulness  of  heart,  and  with  a 
peaceful  mind  ;  and  the  next  day  rode  to  Danby. 
I  On  seventh  day,  we  attended  an  appointed  meeting  near  a  vil- 
lage called  the  Borough,  in  the  east  part  of  the  town  ;  and  on  first 
day,  attended  Friends'  meeting  on  the  Hill.  Both  were  fully 
attended  by  Friends,  and  the  neighbouring  inhabitants  ;  and  were 
both  solemn  instructive  seasons,  in  which  the  power  of  truth 
was  felt  to  preside,  enabUng  to  preach  the  gospel  in  the  demon- 


3m 


JOURNAL  OP 


slration  of  the  spirit,  to  the  comfort  and  encouragement  of  the 
living,  faithful  few,  and  to  the  instruction  and  edification  of  the 
honest  inquirers,  whose  faces  were  turned  Zion-ward ;  likewise 
spreading  caution  and  reproof  to  the  indolent  and  careless. 

On  second  day  we  proceeded  towards  Ferrisburg.  Avhere  we 
arrived  on  third  day  afternoon,  and  the  next  day  attended  the 
monthly  meeting  at  that  place.  The  four  following  days,  we 
attended  meetings  in  the  following  order :  On  fifth  day  we  had 
an  appointed  meeting  at  Monkton.  It  was  large,  and  proved  a 
very  solemn,  favoured  meeting,  in  which  the  power  of  truth  pre- 
vailed, silencing  all  opposition,  and  ran  as  oil,  to  the  comfort, 
encouragement  and  instruction  of  the  honest-hearted.  Bless  the 
Lord,  O  my  soul,  and  forget  not  any  of  his  benefits  !  On  sixth 
day  we  attended  Friends'  monthly  meeting  at  Starksborough. 
On  seventh  day  had  an  appointed  meeting  in  a  school-house,  in 
the  southeast  part  of  the  town,  where  Friends  hold  a  small  meet- 
ing ;  and  on  first  day  was  at  Friends'  meeting  at  Lincoln.  These 
were  all  favoured  meetings,  in  which  I  had  good  service  for  truth 
and  its  cause. 

On  second  day,  we  returned  into  the  south  part  of  Monkton, 
and  had  an  evening  meeting  in  a  kinsman's  house,  by  the  name 
of  Stephen  Haight.  He  was  convinced  of  the  principles  of 
Friends,  Ixit  failed  in  the  practical  part.  This  proved  a  pretty 
exercising  season,  by  reason  of  the  imsettled  state  of  some  who 
attended  ;  especially  in  the  silent  part  of  the  meeting  :  for  being 
brought  up  and  educated  in  the  belief  that,  unless  they  are 
engaged  in  some  bodily  exercise,  such  as  outward  and  vocal  sing- 
ing, praying,  preaching,  and  the  like,  there  is  no  meeting ;  being 
so  instructed  by  their  teachers,  it  is  very  diihcult  to  get  them 
into  stiUness,  or  into  any  right  condition  to  hear.  This  makes 
hard  work  for  the  true  gospel  minister,  whose  labour  and 
travail  is  to  get  into,  and  bring  others  into,  a  state  of  true  solemn 
silence  ;  that  he  may  therefore  liecome  baptized  into  flie  state  of 
the  people,  and  be  quaUfied  to  administer  to  their  real  conditions ; 
for  otherwise  preaching  is  vain.  But  as  I  continued  patient  in 
travaU,  my  mouth  was  opened  in  a  large  searching  testimony, 
showing  the  fallacy  and  emptiiiess  of  all  outward  ceremonial 


ELIAS  HICKS.  361 

worship ;  and  that  it  must  inevitably  land  all  those  who  trust 
therein,  in  a  state  of  sad  disappointment,  in  the  end.  I  was  led 
also  to  open,  in  a  clear  manner  to  the  people,  (he  most  essential 
doctrines  of  the  Christian  religion,  to  the  information  and  satisfac- 
tion of  the  honest  inquiring  minds. 

The  next  day  we  returned  to  Ferrisburgh,  in  order  to  attend 
the  quarterly  meeting  which  opened  on  fourth  day,  with  the  meet- 
ing of  Ministers  and  Elders,  which  I  attended,  and  had  good  ser- 
vice among  them.  I  was  led  to  open  in  the  life  the  order  of 
true  gospel  ministry,  and  the  necessity  all  are  imder,  who  are 
called  to  that  solemn  and  important  office,  of  keeping  their  vessels 
clean,  not  only  from  sin  and  every  pollution  of  flesh  and  spirit, 
but  also  in  their  ministry  from  all  the  dregs  or  remains  of  former 
offerings.  For  if,  through  the  strength  of  memory,  any  act  upon 
former  offerings,  such  communications  tend  to  produce  death, 
rather  than  life.  We  find,  mider  the  law,  that  the  vessels  in  the 
Lord's  house  were  not  only  at  first  made  pure  and  holy,  but  when 
they  were  made  use  of  in  the  Lord's  offerings,  and  had  been  filled 
with  the  Lord's  holy  things,  when  that  season  of  offering  was 
over,  they  were  then  cleansed  from  all  the  remains  and  dregs  of 
such  offering,  and  put  up  in  their  places  clean  and  empty.  This 
also  agrees  with  the  doctrine  of  Christ  to  his  apostles  :  "  Every 
branch  in  me,"  he  says,  "  that  Ijeareth  frui<,  "'y  lieavenly  Father 
purgeth  it,  that  it  may  bring  forth  inore  fruit."  It  was,  I  trust, 
an  instructive  season,  there  being  a  number  present  who  were 
young  in  the  ministry. 

After  this  meeting  we  rode  to  Vergennes,  and  attended  an 
appointed  meeting  at  six  in  the  evening.  It  was  pretty  well 
attended  by  the  inhabitants  of  the  town,  who  generally  behaved 
soberly.  I  was  led  to  open  divers  important  doctrines  of  the  gos- 
pel for  their  consideration,  and  to  caution  them  against  having 
any  fellowship  with,  or  affording  any  support  to  the  dark,  and 
what  I  esteem,  pernicious  system  of  Free  Masonry.  They  were 
generally  attentive,  and  withdrew  quietly. 

The  two  following  days,  we  attended  the  quarterly  meeting 
for  discipline ;  and  the  parting  meeting  for  worship.  These,  I 
trust,  were  profitable  opportunities.    The  latter  was  a  highly 

4(5 


362 


JOURNAL  OP 


favoured  meeting,  in  which  truth  reigned  over  all ;  and  I  took 
leave  of  my  friends  in  the  sensible  feeling  of  true  gospel  fel- 
lowship. 

We  rode,  that  afternoon  and  evening,  to  Shoram,  and  lodged 
with  our  kind  friends  Zebulon  and  EHzabeth  Frost.  The  next 
day  at  evening,  had  an  appointed  meeting  there,  which  many  of 
the  neighbouring  inhabitants  attended.  It  was  a  solenm  time, 
in  which  many  doctrines  of  the  Christian  religion  were  opened 
for  their  instruction  and  consideration ;  and  1  parted  with  them 
with  a  peaceful  mind. 

The  next  day  we  rode  to  Granville ;  and  the  following  day 
had  an  appointed  meeting  there,  at  one  o'clock  in  the  afternoon. 
This  was  a  greatly  favoined  opportunity,  the  power  of  truth 
breaking  down  and  dispelling  every  opposite  spirit,  luunbling 
and  coiitriting  many  hearts,  and  comforting  and  strengthening 
the  honest-hearted.  Surely  it  was  the  Lord's  doing ;  a  sense 
of  which  inspires  gratitude  and  thankfulness  of  heart,  for  the 
unmerited  favour. 

On  third  day  we  rode  to  Easton.  On  fourth  and  fifth  days 
we  attended  their  quarterly  meeting  for  discipline,  and  public 
meeting  for  worship.  Their  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders 
was  held  on  third  day  previous  to  our  arrival.  On  sixth  day  we 
had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Camljridge.  These  meetings  were 
all  comfortable  instructive  seacons,  in  which  the  doctrines  of  truth 
were  largely  opened,  for  the  inlbrmation  and  edification  of  the 
people. 

We  rested  on  seventh  day,  feeUng  myself  pretty  much  worn 
out  with  such  continual  and  almost  incessant  labour  in  travelling 
and  in  meetings.  On  first  day  I  again  attended  Easton  meeting 
which  was  also  a  large  favoured  meeting,  in  which  the  power  of 
truth  was  exalted. 

On  second  day  we  proceeded  on  our  way  to  Q-ucensbury,  and 
attended  a  meeting  in  our  way,  which  I  had  previously  appointed 
at  a  large  village  called  Whipple  City.  It  was  largely  attended 
by  the  neighbouring  inhabitants.  There  were  no  members  of 
our  society  in  the  place.  It  was,  I  think,  a  favoured  opportunity, 
in  which  I  was  enabled  to  declare  the  truth  among  them,  in  a 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


363 


large,  effective  testimony.  Many  present  were  humbled  and  coh- 
trif ed,  and  I  parted  with  them  in  true  peace  of  mind. 

After  tins  we  proceeded  to  Queensbury,  wliere  we  arrived  in 
the  evening.   The  t  hree  following  days  we  attended  the  quarterly 
meeting  held  there  at  this  time  for  Saratoga  and  Q.ueensbury.  I 
also  attended  two  evening  meetings  in  two  neiglibovning  villages, 
which  I  had  appointed  for  tlie  benefit  of  those  of  other  societies, 
who  pretty  generally  attended.    I  tliink  the  quarterly  meeting 
in  general  was  an  instructive  favoured  time.    The  two  other 
meetings  were  exercising  seasons ;  the  minds  of  the  people 
appeared  to  be  very  much  veiled,  and  in  a  state  of  much  igno- 
rance ;  being  generally  too  much  swallowed  up  in  worldly  pur- 
suits, and  self-gratifications.    This  makes  hard  work  for  the 
devoted  traveller,  who  is  engaged  for  the  advancement  of  the 
cause  of  truth  and  righteousness  in  the  earth.    But  as  1  waited, 
and  patiently  endured  the  baptisms  necessary  to  be  brought  into 
a  feeling  of  their  real  conditions,  way  opened  to  communicate 
doctrine  suitable  for  their  instruction  and  help ;  and,  although 
there  did  not  appear  much  effect  wrought  for  the  present,  yet  I 
had  reason  to  hope,  that  the  labour  would  not  be  all  lost ;  nor 
the  word  rrturn  void,  but  would,  in  the  end,  accomplish  the  thing 
whereunto  it  was  sent,  and  be  as  bread  cast  upon  the  waters  to 
return  after  many  days.    My  hope  in  this  respect  was  strength- 
ened from  the  satisfaction  and  true  peace  I  felt  in  the  ardent 
labour  I  passed  through,  in  these  seasons  of  exercise. 

The  quarterly  meeting  being  over,  we  proceeded  to  Saratoga, 
and  on  sixth  day  had  an  appointed  meeting  there  at  two  o'clock 
in  the  afternoon.  This  was  a  large  favoured  meeting,  in  which 
truth  was  raised  into  victory  over  all,  and  under  its  precious  influ- 
ence the  gospel  was  preached  in  the  clear  demonstration  of  the 
spirit.  Thanks  be  to  God  for  his  unspeakable  gift. 
I  From  thence  we  proceeded  to  Milton,  and  on  first  day,  the 
28th  of  2d  month,  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  there.  It  was 
largely  attended  by  Friends  and  others,  and  through  the  conde- 
scending goodness  of  Israel's  unslumbering  Sliepherd  it  proved 
an  instructive  edifying  season. 

The  five  following  days,  we  attended  meeting's  at  Greenfield, 


364 


JOURNAL  OP 


GtiUoway,  Providence,  Mayfieltl,  and  Northampton.  Although 
things  in  most  places,  as  it  regards  the  hfe  of  rehgion,  appeared 
rather  low,  and  considerable  rawness  was  apparent  in  many  in 
that  respect,  yet  such  is  the  unmeiited  kinchiess  of  the  heavenly 
Father,  that  he  graciously  condescended  to  break  the  bread,  and 
caused  it  to  be  distributed  to  the  people,  in  these  several  o|iportu- 
nities,  so  that  none  were  sent  empty  away,  except  those  who 
either  neglected  or  refused  to  take  the  portion  allotted  them  ;  and 
my  spirit  was  comforted,  under  an  evident  sense  that  I  had  faith- 
fully discharged  my  duty  among  them. 

From  Northampton  we  proceeded  to  Newtowm,  and  on  first 
day  the  7  th  of  3d  month,  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  that 
place ;  and,  information  being  given  that  we  were  there,  it  was 
large.  A  very  considerable  number  more  assembled,  than  the 
house  could  contain,  who  were  obliged  to  stand  without.  For 
these  I  felt  much  sympathy  and  concern,  as  the  weather  was  very- 
cold,  and  those  without,  not  willing  to  lose  the  opportunity,  con- 
tinued until  the  meeting  ended,  which  held  nearly  three  hours. 
But  I  had  cause  to  hope  tliey  did  not  go  away  imrewarded,  as 
the  season  proved  a  very  favoured  one,  in  which  the  divine 
presence  was  felt  to  preside,  enabling  to  preach  the  gospel  of  the 
grace  of  God  to  the  people,  in  the  demonstration  of  tiaith,  and  to 
the  comfort  and  peace  of  my  own  mind. 

On  the  evenings  of  the  two  following  days,  I  attended  meetings 
by  appointment,  at  Waterford  and  Troy.  Both  were  largely 
attended  by  those  not  in  membersiiip  with  us.  On  fourth  day, 
attended  Friends'  monthly  meeting  at  Troy.  On  fifth  day  eve- 
ning, had  a  very  large  meeting  in  Albany,  which  was  held  in 
the  state-house,  a  large,  commodious  room  for  the  purpose.  In 
these  several  meetings  truth  was  felt  to  arise  into  dominion,  and 
abiUty  afforded  to  discharge  myself  faithfully  in  communication 
to  the  people  who  assemliled,  I  tiust,  to  their  general  satisfaction 
and  edification  ;  may  it  instinctively  fasten  on  their  minds,  as  a 
nail  in  a  sure  place,  driven  by  the  Master  of  assemltlies,  that  so 
the  word  preached  may  tend  to  real  profit,  and  not  return  void, 
but  accomplish  the  end  to  which  it  was  sent. 

From  ihent«  we  proceeded  to  Bern,  within  the  compass  of 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


365 


Duanesburgh  quarteily  meeting,  where  we  arrived  on  sixth  day 
evening,  and  lodged  with  our  kind  friend  Samuel  Cary,  who, 
with  his  afiectiouate  wife  and  children,  treated  us  with  great  hos- 
pitality. The  next  evening  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  a 
village  about  four  miles  distant,  where  no  member  of  our  societj'^ 
resides.  We  intended  to  return  and  attend  Friends'  meeting  at 
Bern,  on  first  day ;  but  a  snow  storm  coming  on  seventh  day  , 
and  increasing  towards  evening  and  all  next  day  with  such 
violence,  that,  although  we  got  to  the  evening  meeting,  which 
was  small,  by  reason  of  the  storm,  we  were  not  able  to  return 
imtil  the  following  second  day,  and  then  it  was  with  great 
difficulty  that  we  got  along,  the  snow  was  so  deep,  and  the 
roads  drifted  full.  We  however  made  the  attempt  to  return 
on  first  day  morning,  and  got  on  our  way  about  half  a  mile, 
but  covild  proceed  no  farther.  Wc  then  called  at  a  house 
on  the  way,  a  good  looking  mansion  belonging  to  a  professor 
amorig  the  Presbyterians.  Here  we  tarried  over  first  day,  not 
being  able  to  proceed.  We  held  a  little  meeting  there  with  this 
family,  and  three  of  their  friends,  who  were  with  them  on  a  visit, 
in  which  my  mind  was  opened  to  communicate  to  them  the 
grounds  of  our  profession,  and  the  doctrines  of  the  Christian  reli- 
gion, as  held  by  us.  This  had  a  very  considerable  effect  on  the 
man's  wife,  so  that  she  openly  acknowledged  to  the  truths,  deli- 
vered, and  assured  all  present  that  she  shoukl  vindicate  them,  as 
certain  undenial>le  truths,  which  she  felt  to  be  so,  in  her  own 
experience. 

On  the  following  fifth  day,  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  at 
Bern.  The  weather  being  again  stoimy  and  inclement,  it  was 
small.  The  roads  were  blocked  up,  so  as  to  prevent  many  from 
attending.  The  next  day  we  proceeded  to  Duanesburgh,  and 
had  a  meeting  there  on  seventh  day,  which  was  a  large  favoured 
season.  On  first  day  we  attended  meetings  at  Charlestown  in  the 
morning,  and  at  Carlisle  in  the  evening.  On  second  day  we 
proceeded  to  Middleburgh,  and  the  next  day  had  a  meeting  there. 
The  day  following,  had  meetings  at  Oakhill  in  the  morning,  and 
at  Rensselaerville  in  the  afternoon.  After  this  we  returned  with 
our  friend  Samuel  Cary  to  his  house,  who  had  kindly  accompa- 


366 


JOt'RNAL  OF 


nied  us  in  this  little  torn .  I  felt  true  peace  of  mind,  from  a  con- 
sciousness that  1  had  faithfully  discharged  myself  in  the  service 
allotted  nie,  in  those  several  meetings,  void  of  any  influence  from 
the  fear  or  favour  of  man. 

On  fifth  day,  we  attended  Friends'  monthly  meeting  at  Bern. 
The  meeting  for  worship  was  attended  by  a  very  considerable 
number  of  the  neighbouring  inhabitants,  not  in  membership  with 
us,  who  behaved  themselves  soberly,  and  were  very  attentive  to 
what  was  communicated.  Many  were  broken  and  contrited  by 
the  prevalence  of  truth,  which  was  raised  into  dominion  in  this 
favoured  meeting.  Not  only  the  meeting  for  worship,  but  like- 
wise that  for  discipline  was  a  comfoitable  instructive  season. 

The  two  following  days,  we  had  meetings  at  New  Baltimore, 
and  a  village  where  several  famihes  of  Friends  reside,  by  the  name 
of  Dickenson,  from  whom  they  call  the  meeting  "  Dickenson's 
meeting ;"  and  at  Coeman's,  aUas,  Stanton  Hill.  I  had  good  ser- 
vice in  those  several  meetings,  in  which  Friends  appeared  to  be 
brought  near  together,  in  the  feehng  influence  of  the  truth,  and 
m  the  oneness  of  the  spirit.  In  a  sense  of  this,  we  had  gratefidly 
to  acknowledge  that  the  Lord  is  still  mindful  of  his  people,  fulfil- 
ling all  his  promises  to  those  who  seek  him  ^nth  sincerity  of 
heart ;  and  they  that  seek  him  early  wUl  find  hijn  to  be  near  at 
hand,  a  present  helper  in  every  needful  time. 

After  the  latter  meeting,  we  proceeded  to  Athens ;  and,  the 
next  day  being  the  fust  of  the  week,  and  the  28th  of  3d  month, 
we  attended  Friends'  meeting  there  in  tlie  morning,  and  had 
another  meeting  by  appointment  in  the  afternoon.  These  were 
exercising  meetings,  particularly  so  in  the  forepart  of  the  latter. 
A  great  power  of  darkness  seemed  so  to  prevail,  as  entirely  for  a 
considerable  time,  to  close  up  the  way  to  ajiy  pubhc  service ;  but 
as  I  patiently  submitted  to  the  baptism  and  willingly  became  bap- 
tized, with  and  for  the  dead,  for  it  is  only  through  death,  that  the 
resurrection  from  death  can  be  witnessed,  a  little  glimmering  of 
light  appeared,  in  which  I  felt  the  necessity  of  stai^ding  up ; 
and  as  I  proceeded,  keeping  my  ey^e  single  to  the  hght  that  led 
the  way,  the  light  more  and  more  arose,  and  the  darkness  van- 
ished ;  and  He  that  opens  and  none  can  shut,  and  shuts  and  none 


P.T.IAS  HTCKS. 


367 


but  himself  can  open,  made  way  for  the  promotion  of  his  own 
righteous  cause,  and  the  exaltation  of  truth's  testimonies.  It  was 
the  Lord's  doing,  and  marvellous  in  mine  eyes. 

We  left  here  on  second  day  morning,  and  proceeded  to  Alex- 
ander Young's  at  the  east  part  of  Esopus,  about  forty  miles. 
This  was  a  day  of  very  hard  travel,  both  for  man  and  horse,  the 
roads  being  bad,  as  the  winter  was  just  breaking  up ;  but  we 
arrived  safe  in  the  evening,  and  were  kindly  received  by  our 
friends,  which  made  up  in  part  for  tlie  toil  of  the  day. 

At  this  place  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  the  next  day.  The 
five  following  days  we  had  meetings  at  Rosendale  Plains,  Paltz, 
Plattekill,  Newburgh  Valley  and  Marlborough.  Attending  these 
meetings,  with  the  exercise  of  travelling  on  the  heavy,  rough  roads, 
produced  a  large  portion  of  exercise,  both  to  body  and  mind.  But 
the  Lord's  strengthening  and  consoling  presence,  vouchsafed  from 
season  to  season  for  our  help,  carried  us  through  and  over  all,  to  the 
praise  of  his  grace,  and  to  the  comfort  and  peace  of  our  own  minds. 

On  se(;ond  day,  the  5th  of  4th  month,  we  proceeded  to  Corn- 
wall, and  attended  a  meeting  by  previous  appointment,  at  the 
eleventh  hour.  The  next  day,  had  an  appointed  meeting  at 
Smith's  Clove,  and  the  day  following  were  at  a  place  called  the 
Upper  Clove,  alias  Blooming  Grove.  In  these  several  meetings 
I  was  led  larg'ely  to  open  to  the  people  the  law  state,  or  dispensa- 
tion of  figure,  as  comprehensively  set  forth  in  the  Old  Testament, 
and  to  show  the  diflcrencc  between  that  and  the  gospel,  and  that 
the  first  ends  where  the  latter  begins,  and  are  as  distinct  from 
each  other,  as  the  body  is  from  the  soul.  The  first  comprehends 
the  salvation  of  bodies  from  outward  servitude,  the  latter  the  sal- 
vation of  the  soul  from  sin,  and  the  death  consequent  on  it.  I 
also  set  forth  the  use  and  necessity  of  the  rituals,  or  shadows  of 
that  dispensation,  during  its  continuance ;  and  that  they  were 
all  abolished  under  the  gospel,  and  have  no  part  nor  lot  under 
that  dispensation.  I  had  much  service  in  these  meetings,  and 
great  cause  of  gratitude  and  thankfulness  to  the  bountiful  Author  ' 
of  all  our  multiphed  favours. 

The  next  day,  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Kakiat,  alias 
Hempstead.    We  had  a  tedious  time  in  getting  there,  the  road, 


368 


JOTTRNAL  OP 


part  of  the  way,  being  deep  with  mud  and  wet,  and  much  out  up. 
But  the  Lord  richly  rewarded  us  for  all  our  toil,  in  giving  us  a 
precious  meeting  with  our  friends,  and  a  considerable  number  of 
the  neighbouring  inhabitants.  It  was  truly  a  season  of  grateful 
remembrance,  both  by  us  and  our  friends  ;  we  were  made  to 
rejoice  together  for  the  unmerited  favour. 

After  this  we  proceeded  to  Tappan,  to  the  house  of  our  frieiid 
John  Lawrence.  Here  is  not  any  meeting  of  Friends  ;  but  feel- 
ing the  way  0{)en,  we  appointed  a  meeting  there  at  two  o'clock 
next  day.  Although  it  was  not  large,  yet,  I  trust,  it  was  a  com- 
fortable instructive  season  to  some  present. 

This  meeting  closed  our  visit,  and  the  next  morning  we  pro- 
ceeded to  New-York,  where  we  heard  of  the  decease  of  my  kins- 
man Benjamin  Hicks,  with  information  that  he  was  to  be  interred 
the  next  day. 

This  induced  us  to  proceed  home  that  afternoon,  where  we 
arrived  between  eight  and  nine  at  night,  much  wearied,  having 
travelled  in  the  course  of  the  day  upwards  of  fifty  miles,  and 
some  of  the  way  but  indifferent  travelling.  Finding,  however, 
our  dear  families  weU,  accompanied  with  sweet  peace  of  mind, 
it  made  rich  amends  for  all  our  toil,  and  my  heart  was  inspired 
with  gratitude  and  thankfulness  to  the  great  and  gracious  Author 
of  all  our  blessings. 

I  was  from  home  in  this  journey  fourteen  weeks,  attended 
seventy-three  meetings,  three  quarterly  meetings,  four  monthly 
meetings,  and  travelled  one  thousand  and  eighty-four  miles. 

The  next  day  I  attended  the  funeral  of  the  aforesaid  Friend, 
which  was  on  first  day  the  11th  of  4th  month,  1819.  It  was 
largely  attended  by  Friends  and  others,  he  being  a  man  much 
esteemed  by  his  friends  and  neighbours,  and  a  useful  member  of 
society,  both  in  a  religious  and  moral  relation,  and  his  memory 
will  be  blessed.  It  was  a  very  solemn  time,  in  which  my  heart 
and  mouth  were  largely  opened  to  declare  to  the  people  of  the 
things  concerning  the  kingdom  of  God  ;  and  to  point  out  to  them 
in  a  full  and  clear  manner,  the  only  way  and  means  by  which 
an  entrance  therein  is  attainable  by  the  children  of  men.  It  was 
a  season  of  favour,  and  many  hearts  were  made  to  rejoice  under 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


369 


an  humbling  sense  of  the  gracious  extending  of  heavenly  regard 
to  the  workmanship  of  His  holy  hand. 

After  this  my  lot  seemed  similar  to  Mordecai's  of  old,  when 
sitting  at  the  king's  gate ;  I  had  but  little  pul)lic  service  when  at 
and  about  home.  This  brought  to  my  remembrance,  the  saying 
of  our  Lord  to  his  disciples,  on  their  return  from  the  service  he 
he  had  sent  them  out  to  perform  in  the  land  of  Israel.  When 
they  had  given  him  an  account  how  well  they  had  succeeded,  he 
invited  them  to  retire  awhile  and  rest.  I  was  mostly  silent  in 
our  meetings  at  home,  and  was  not  from  home,  except  to  attend 
a  funeral  in  a  neighbouring  town,  and  our  quarterly  meeting  at 
New- York,  until  our  yearly  meeting. 

This  opened  on  seventh  day,  the  22d  of  5th  month,  with  a 
meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders.  The  yearly  meeting  for  dis- 
ciphne  opened  on  the  following  second  day,  and  closed  near  eve- 
ning, on  the  fifth  day  following.  It  was,  I  think,  in  general,  a 
favomed  meeting,  although  the  weaknesses  and  deficiencies  still 
among  us,  as  manifested  by  the  accounts  from  our  quarterly 
meetings,  were  cause  of  exercise  and  travail  to  the  honest- hearted 
who  are  engaged  for  the  promotion  of  the  cause  of  righteousness 
and  peace  in  the  earth ;  yet  the  condescending  goodness  of  the 
Shepherd  of  Israel,  in  manifesting  his  life-giving  presence  for  our 
encouragement  and  supj)ort,  inspired  the  hearts  of  the  living  with 
thanksgiving  and  gratitude  for  liis  immerited  mercies.  We 
returned  home  the  next  day.  •  * 

I  now  foimd  it  my  duty  to  pay  some  attention  to  my  temporal 
concerns,  and  to  see  that  all  accounts  between  myself  and  others 
were  truly  adjusted  and  settled,  as  is  my  general  rule  from  year 
to  year.  A  rule  which  every  honest  man  will  be  led  to  pursue, 
to  prevent  trouble  and  preserve  harmony  ;  as  a  contrary  course 
often  leads  to  vexation  and  litigation,  by  which  both  parties  are 
often  hurt  and  wounded. 

First  day  the  30th  of  5tii  month.  I  attended  oiu  meeting  as 
usual,  when  at  home.  Had  a  short  comnmnication,  tending  to 
excite  Friends  to  faithfulness,  and  an  inward  labouj,  that  the 
true  end  of  our  meeting  together  might  be  answered.    I  was 

busily  employed  in  the  course  of  this  week,  in  my  temporal  con- 

47 


370 


JOURNAL  OP 


cerns.    Attended  our  fifth  day  meeting ;  and  closed  the  week 
in  quiet. 

Firyt  day,  the  6th  of  6ih  month.  I  was  led,  in  oui'  meeting, 
to  shoAV  Friends  the  fallacy  of  trusting  in  the  outside  appearance 
of  things,  without  coming  to  possess  the  real  substance,  as  the 
day  is  hastening  when  every  foundation  will  be  tried,  and  all 
will  receive  according  as  their  works  have  been.  I  was  conside- 
rably enlarged,  and  the  power  of  truth  was  exalted  over  all. 

I  found  it  my  place  at  this  time,  to  keep  close  at  home,  both 
in  an  inward  and  outward  sense,  to  arrange  my  temporal  con- 
cerns, and  set  things  in  order  ;  not  knowing  how  soon  I  may 
be  called  to  leave  them  all,  and  surrender  them,  with  myself,  to 
the  guarchan  care  and  disposal  of  a  gracious  Providence,  who 
doth  not  suffer  a  sparrow  to  fall  to  the  ground,  without  his  hea- 
venly notice.  I  attended  our  preparative  meeting  on  fifth  day, 
and  the  meeting  of  the  Charity  Society,  for  educating  the  chil- 
dren of  the  poor  black  people,  on  seventh  day  ;  in  both  of  which 
I  felt  satisfaction  and  peace  of  mind. 

First  day,  the  13th  of  6th  month.  Towards  the  close  of  our 
meeting  to  day,  I  had  to  open  to  Friends  the  necessity  of  onr 
individually  coming  to  know  what  life  we  are  Uving  ;  whether 
it  be  a  life  after  the  flesh,  which  worketh  death  to  the  immoital 
soul ;  or  a  life  of  the  spirit,  by  whiclr  we  become  spiritually- 
minded.  For  if  we  five  after  the  flesh,  it  will  prove  in  the  world 
to  come  an  eternal  death  to  the  Soul ;  but  if  it  be  a  hfe  in  the 
spirit,  and  in  the  things  of  heaven,  it  will  prove  an  everlasting 
life  to  the  soul,  in  the  world  to  come  ;  and  will  crown  it  with  joy 
unspeakaljle,  and  full  of  glory,  at  God's  right  hand  for  evermore. 

From  this  time  to  our  monthly  meeting  in  7th  month,  I  was 
pretty  steadily  at  home.  Attended  our  meetings  as  they  came 
in  course ;  and  was  very  busily  and  necessarily  engaged  in  my 
temporal  concerns,  having  a  prospect  before  me  of  attending 
the  ensuing  yearly  meeting  of  Ohio,  and  also  some  other 
rrieetings  in  that,  and  in  the  compass  of  Baltimore  and  Phila- 
delphia yearly  meeting.  This  concern  I  spread  before  my 
Friends,  at  our  monthly  meeting  the  15th  of  7lh  month;  and 
obtained  their  imity  and  concurrence. 


KT.TAS  HTfKS. 


371 


First  day,  the  IStli  of  7th  iiiontli.  Adeiuled  om  meeting. 
We  had  the  company  of  our  ancient  honcf^t  friend  Thomas 
Titus.  He  communicated  for  our  consideration,  some  plain 
truths,  in  order  (o  stir  up  and  encourage  Friends  to  industry  and 
faithfuhiess  in  those  things  wliich  belong  to  their  everlasting 
peace  and  welfare.  I  felt  unity  with  him  in  his  exercise,  and 
found  it  my  place  and  duty  to  make  some  addition,  to  bring  the 
matter  close  home  to  the  minds  of  Friends.  It  was  a  favoured 
solemn  meeting,  and  most  minds  seemed  well  aiTected  with  the 
heavenly  power  which  was  felt  to  preside. 

In  the  course  of  this  week  our  quarterly  meeting  was  held  at 
Westbury.  It  was  well  attended  by  Friends  ;  and  the  public 
meeting  was  very  large.  It  was  in  the  main  a  favoured  meet- 
ing. I  likewise  opened  to  this  meeting,  my  prospex;t  of  attending 
the  yearly  meeting  of  Ohio ;  and  produced  (he  minute  of  unity 
and  concurrence  from  our  monthly  meeting.  It  was  fully  united 
with  by  the  quarterly  meeting,  and  an  endorsement  thereof  made 
on  my  certificate. 

First  day  the  25th.  A  silent  meeting  to-day.  When  such 
meetings  are  attended  with  full  acquiescence,  and  entire  peace  of 
mind,  how  precious  they  are.  Thus  are  the  Lord's  dedicated 
children  led  and  instructed  ;  taught  how  to  suffer  want,  and  how 
to  abound ;  being  content  in  every  dispensation  of  his  divine 
will  and  pleasure  :  and  in  this  condition,  all  things  work  together 
for  good  to  these.  Hence  we  are  led  to  "  Rejoice  evermore. 
Pray  without  ceasing.    In  every  thing  give  thanks." 

The  rest  of  this  week  I  was  dihgently  employed  in  preparing 
for  my  intended  journey;  and  in  arranging  my  temporal  con- 
cerns, that  noeccasion  might  be  given  to  the  adversaries  of  truth, 
to  reproach  the  truth,  or  its  cause,  by  any  neglect  or  omission  on 
my  part ;  and  endeavouring  that  all  things  might  be  left  sweet 
and  quiet  at  home,  that  so  I  might  leave  it  with  peace  of  mind, 
freed  from  every  burden  and  care  on  that  account ;  and  be  fully 
at  liberty  to  devote  myself  wholly  to  the  service  of  my  great 
and  good  Master,  until  the  allotted  portion  is  accomplished, 
which  he  hath  called  me  forth  to  fulfil.    For  to  him  belong 


372 


JOTTRNAL  OP 


obedience  and  worship,  who  is  over  all,  God  blessed  for  ever. 
Amen. 

First  day  the  1st  of  8th  month.  At  our  meeting  to-day,  my 
mind  was  led  into  a  view  of  the  excellence  and  necessity  of  a 
right  faith  in  God  and  Christ ;  it  being  that  by  which  the  just 
live.  For  nothing  else  can  qualify  to  live  a  life  of  true  righteous- 
ness and  justice,  but  a  true  and  living  faith  in  God  and  Christ ; 
and  without  this  faith,  it  is  impossible  to  please  God.  The  subject 
spread  and  led  to  commimication  in  a  large  testimony,  by  which 
many  minds  were  reached  and  comforted,  and  a  precious  solem- 
nity spread  over  the  meeting ;  and  we  parted  from  each  other 
with  grateful  hearts  for  tlie  unmerited  favour. 

On  fifth  day  I  was  led  to  call  the  attention  of  my  fiiends  to 
first  principles,  and  to  recur  to  the  uprightness,  simplicity,  and 
faithfulness  of  our  worthy  predecessors,  and  to  recount  the  great 
and  sorrowful  deviations  therefrom  by  those  who  are  making 
the  same  profession  in  the  present  day,  in  departing  from  a  full 
reliance  and  dependance  on  the  power  and  spirit  that  actuated 
and  governed  them.  Hence  weakness  and  darkness  pervade 
their  minds,  by  which  great  reproach  is  brought  upon  the  society, 
and  occasion  given  for  many  to  speak  evil  of  the  truth,  and  the 
principle  we  hold  out  to  the  world,  as  the  only  sure  guide  to 
blessedness  ;  to  the  wounding  of  the  faithful  few,  who  are  yet  pre- 
served in  a  good  degree  of  gospel  simplicity,  and  who  live  under 
a  daily  exercise  for  the  promotion  and  advancement  of  the  Mes- 
siah's kingdom  here  on  earth,  and  that  it  may  arise  and  become 
the  peace  and  glory  of  all  nations. 


• 


ELIAIS  HICKS. 


373 


CHAPTER  XVI. 

Journey  to  Ohio  in  1819.— Visit  to  the  neighbouring  inhabitants  in  1819. — Visit 
to  Farmington  and  Duanesburgh  quarterly  meetings  in  1820. — Visit  to  some 
parts  of  Pennsylvania,  and  to  Baltimore,  in  1822.  Visit  to  some  of  the  lower 
quarterly  meetings  in  1823. 

Having,  as  before  noted,  had  it  on  my  mind  to  attend  the 
next  yearly  meeting  of  Friends  in  the  state  of  Ohio,  and  some 
other  meetings  in  going  there  and  returning  home ;  and  having 
obtained  a  minute  of  unity  and  concurrence  from  our  monthly 
and  quarterly  meeting,  I  left  home  in  order  to  accomplish  the 
service,  the  17th  of  8th  month,  1819,  and  proceeded  to  New- York. 
The  next  day,  being  first  day,  I  attended  Friends'  meeting  in 
Pearl-street  in  the  morning,  which  proved  a  favoured  season,  in 
which  I  witnessed  a  renewal  of  strength,  and  a  satisfactory  evi- 
dence that  my  proceedure  was  under  right  direction ;  for  which 
my  mind  was  reduced  into  a  state  of  humble  gratitude  for  the 
unmerited  mercy  ;  having  left  my  home  in  weakness  and  poverty 
of  spirit,  and  nothing  to  lean  on  in  crossing  this  Jordan,  but 
my  slender  staff  of  faith.  I  attended  the  meeting  at  Lil^erty- 
street  in  the  afternoon,  which,  although  - small,  was  in  a  good 
degree  comfortable,  and  encouraging  to  my  much  exercised  mind. 
As  our  meeting  for  sufferings  was  the  succeeding  third  day,  I 
staid  in  town  and  attended  that  meeting. 

After  this  I  proceeded  on  my  journey,  accompanied  by  my 
kind  friend  and  neighbour  Willet  Robbins,  who  had  joined  me 
as  a  companion  in  this  journey.  We  attended  tlie  quarterly 
meeting  at  Rahway  on  our  way,  which  opened  the  next  day  with 
the  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders.  The  meeting  for  discipline 
Avas  held  the  day  after  ;  and  a  meeting  for  public  worship,  as  a 
parting  meeting,  the  succeeding  day.    In  these  several  opportu- 


374 


JOTTRNAL  OF 


nities,  way  opened  to  discharge  myself  faithfully  in  the  exercise 
of  gospel  conimunicalion  to  my  friends  and  others  who  attended, 
fully  to  the  reUef  of  my  own  mind,  and,  1  trust,  to  the  instruc- 
tion and  encouragement  of  many  who  attended  ;  the  Lord  hav- 
ing been  graciously  pleased  to  manifest  his  presence  and  power 
for  our  help,  to  the  glory  and  praise  of  his  own  excellent  name, 
who  is  over  aU,  God  blessed  for  ever. 

After  these  solemn  opportunities  were  closed,  we  took  leave  of 
our  friends,  and  proceeded  on  our  journey  ;  and  arrived  at 
Easton  on  seventh  day  evening.  This  is  a  town  on  the 
west  side  of  the  liver  Delaware,  in  the  state  of  Pennsylvania. 
Having  felt  my  mind  led  to  pass  through  this  town,  attended 
with  a  concern  to  have  a  leUgious  opportunity  with  the  in- 
habitants, we  tarried  with  them  the  next  day,  and  had  a 
meeting  appointed,  which  was  held  in  their  school-house,  at 
the  fourth  hour  in  the  afternoon.  It  proved,  tluough  heavenly 
help,  a  favoured,  and,  I  trust,  an  instructive  season  to  many ; 
several  of  their  ministers  and  most  of  the  piincipal  people  attend- 
ed, and  appeared  all  to  go  away  satisfied  ;  and  many  apparently 
with  thankful  hearts  for  the  present  favour;  and  I  parted  with 
them  in  true  peace  of  mind. 

The  next  morning  we  proceeded  on  our  journey,  and  rode  to 
Maiden  Creek,  and  lodged  witii  our  kind  friend  Isaac  Penrose. 
The  day  following  being  third  day,  we  had  an  appointed  meet- 
ing at  Reading,  about  eight  miles  farther  on  our  way.  It  was 
held  in  theii*  court-house.  Many  of  tlie  inhabitants  of  the  town 
attended,  and  tehaved  soberly  ;  and  the  gospel  was  preached 
among  them  in  the  plain  demonstration  of  truth,  and,  I  trust, 
was  as  a  sword  or  hammer  to  some  present,  who  were  not  pre- 
pared to  meet  sound  doctrine  ;  but  was  comfortable  and  instruct- 
ive to  others,  such  as  were  tender  in  spirit,  and  were  honesdy 
seeking  the  way  to  peace.  It  was  a  solemn,  and,  I  trust,  profita- 
ble opportunity. 

After  the  meeting  I  made  a  short  visit  to  a  sick  woman,  who 
appeared  to  be  drawing  fast  toward  her  close.  She  was  com- 
forted in  the  visit,  and  when  I  parted  with  her,  appeared  in  a 
(juiet  resigned  state  of  mind.    Her  bodily  affliction,  which  had 


ttlAS  HICKS.       ^  379 

attended  her  for  a  considerable  time,  had,  I  believe,  wrought  a 
good  work  in  her.  After  this  opportunity  we  proceeded  imnne- 
diately  on  our  joiuney,  which  we  continued  the  four  following 
days,  through  a  nuinber  of  towns  and  villages,  where  no  Friends 
live. 

We  arrived  on  seventh  day  evening  at  Dunning's  Creek, 
where  there  is  a  monthly  meeting  of  Friends.  They  Ue  very 
much  detached  from  the  Ixidy  of  society ;  the  nearest  meeting 
to  them  is  about  sixty  miles  distant.  We  attended  their  meet- 
ing on  first  day,  which  proved,  through  heavenly  help,  a  com- 
fortable, strengthening  opportunity.  We  lodged  with  our  kind 
friend  Thomas  Penrose. 

The  next  morning  wc  proceeded  on  our  journey,  having  the 
Alleghany,  and  several  other  mountains  and  high  and  rough  ridges 
of  land  to  pass  over,  in  our  way  to  the  settlements  of  Friends 
in  the  Redstone  country.  The  roads  were  excessively  bad,  and 
in  some  places  almost  impassable  ;  but  with  two  days  hard  travel- 
ling we  got  safe  to  Connelsville,  on  the  west  side  of  the  moun- 
tains, on  third  day  evening.  We  put  up  with  a  man  by  the 
name  of  John  Gibson,  who  had  once  a  right  of  membership  in 
our  society,  but  by  some  means  had  lost  it;  yet  he  appeared  to 
retain  his  love  to  Friends,  and  was  very  kind  and  benevolent, 
and  appeared  very  glad  of  the  oj)portunity  of  entertaining  Friends. 
His  family  likewise  appeared  very  kind  and  friendly,  and  signi- 
fied it  as  a  matter  of  considerable  regret,  that  they  were  so  far 
distant  from  Friends,  as  not  to  have  the  privilege  of  attending 
their  meetings.  There  was  one  family  of  Friends  in  the  town  ; 
and  one  of  their  children,  an  infant  of  about  eight  months  old, 
had  died  a  little  before  our  arrival ;  and  the  funeral  being  the 
next  day,  we  attended  it.  It  was  a  very  solemn  opportimity.  in 
which  many  hearts  were  contrited  by  the  tendering  power  of 
truth,  which  was  felt  to  cover  the  assembly  in  a  very  general 
manner.  Such  seasons  are  as  a  brook  by  the  way,  to  the  poor 
exercised  travellers,  who  often  go  mourning  on  their  way,  from 
a  sense  of  the  prevalence  of  sin  and  iniquity  in  the  land. 

After  this  solemn  opportimity  we  proceeded  on  our  joiuTiey, 
and  the  next  day  attended  Friends'  monthly  meeting  at  West- 


376  ^         JOURNAL  OTP 

land,  ill  Redstone  quarterly  meeting.  I  had  some  service,  both 
in  the  meeting  for  worship,  and  that  for  disciphne ;  but  things 
appeared  rather  low  as  to  the  right  order  of  the  gospel,  in  both 
meetings.  It  being  a  day  of  tease  and  outward  tranquiUity  ;  and 
this  hath  a  tendency  to  produce  lukewarmness,  if  not  watchfully 
and  diligently  guarded  against. 

From  this  place  we  proceeded  directly  to  Mount  Pleasant,  in 
Ohio,  where  the  yearly  meeting  is  held  ;  where  we  arrived  on 
seventh  day,  the  28th  of  8th  month.  On  first  day,  the  29th, 
attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Short  Creek  in  the  morning,  and 
had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Mount  Pleasant  in  the  afternoon. 
They  were  both  largely  attended,  and  proved  very  instructive 
satisfactory  meetings,  in  which  I  had  good  service  ;  and  found 
sweet  peace  as  the  result  of  my  labours  of  love  amongst  them. 

The  five  following  days,  meetings  were  appointed  for  us  at 
Concord,  St.  Clairville,  Plainfield,  Flushing,  and  Harrisville. 
These  were  all  fidl  meetings ;  generally  more  collected  than  the 
houses  coxdd  contain ;  but  Friends  were  industrious,  and  provided 
seats  out  of  doors,  about  the  house,  by  which  the  people  were 
generally  accommodated. 

On  seventh  day  the  yearly  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders 
opened  ;  and  continued  by  adjournments  until  fifth  day.  I 
think  they  were  generally  favoured  opportunities.  The  Head 
of  the  Church  graciously  condescending  to  manifest  his  presence 
for  the  help  of  his  devoted,  dedicated  children  ;  and  this  is  the 
crown  and  diadem  of  all  oiu'  religious  assemblies.  On  first  day 
public  meetings  for  worship  were  held,  both  forenoon  and  after- 
noon, in  both  Friends'  meeting-houses  in  the  neighbourhood ; 
that  in  the  town  of  Mount  Pleasant,  held  in  their  new  meeting- 
house, which  is  one  of  the  largest  I  ever  saw  belonging  to 
Friends,  was  very  large.  I  attended  that  meeting  both  forenoon 
and  afternoon,  in  which  I  had  much  service  by  way  of  testi- 
mony ;  which  appeared  to  be  much  to  the  comfort  and  general 
edification  of  the  assemblies,  and  resulted  in  the  solid  peace  of 
my  own  mind. 

On  second  day,  the  yearly  meeting  foi-  disciphne  opened,  and 
continued  by  adjournments  until  seventh  day  toward  evening. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


377 


It  was  a  season  of  much  travail  and  exercise  to  the  rightly  con- 
cerned active  members  ;  having  before  them,  in  addition  to  their 
usual  business,  the  revisal  of  their  discipline.  I  was  led  under 
close  exercise  on  the  account,  and  a  very  considerable  portion  of 
active  service  fell  to  my  lot,  with  other  Friends.  It  was  thought, 
I  beheve,  by  Friends  generally,  to  have  been  the  most  favoured 
yearly  meeting  they  had  had  since  its  institution,  and  was 
worthy  of  grateful  remembrance. 

I  tarried  here  over  first  day,  and  attended  their  meeting  at  the 
old  meeting- house.  It  was  a  season  of  deep  travail  in  the  fore- 
part of  the  meeting,  in  which  my  spirit  was  led  mto  deep  baptism 
with,  and  for,  the  dead  ;  and  I  wcis  brought  into  sympathy  and 
fellowship  mth  the  suffering  seed,  which  appeared  to  me  to  be 
pressed  down  in  the  hearts  of  the  formal  professors,  as  a  cart 
under  sheaves.  This,  I  beUeved,  was  too  much  the  situation  of 
a  considerable  number  in  that  assembly ;  but  as  I  continued 
patiently  to  endure  the  exercise,  and  kept  up  the  inward  travail, 
light  sprang  up  and  dispelled  the  darkness,  accompanied  with  a 
motion  of  life  to  stand  up ;  and  my  mouth  was  opened  in  a 
large  searching  and  effective  testimony,  whereby  the  dead  were 
raised,  the  lukewarm  stirred  up,  the  honest  seekers  encouraged, 
and  the  rightly  exercised  minds  comforted  and  edified.  It  was 
the  Lord's  doing,  and  marvellous  in  mine  eyes. 

The  six  succeeding  days,  meetings  were  appointed  at  the 
following  places,  which  we  attended.  On  second  day,  at  a 
little  village  called  York,  where  a  few  Friends  were  privileged 
wnth  an  indulged  meeting ;  a  meeting  not  being  estabhshed. 
On  third  day  at  Smithfield  ;  on  fourth  day  at  Gross  Creek ;  on 
fifth  day  at  Franklin,  where  was  also  only  a  small  indulged 
meeting.  On  sixth  day,  at  Augusta,  at  the  tenth  hour  in  the 
morning,  and  at  Sandy  Spring,  at  the  third  hour  in  the  after- 
noon ;  on  seventh  day  at  New  Garden.  These  were  all  seasons 
of  favour,  wherein  I  was  strengthened  to  labour  in  the  work 
of  the  gospel,  and  to  declare  largely  to  these  several  assembUes, 
of  the  things  concerning  the  kingdom  of  God ;  endeavouring, 
by  persuasive  arguments,  founded  in  the  clear  demonstration 
of  the  spirit,  accompanied  with  a  lively  evidence  of  divine 


378 


JOURNAL  OF 


power  to  gather  the  minds  of  the  people  to  the  light  of  Christ, 
or  Christ  the  light,  in  their  own  hearts ;  as  the  only  sure 
guide  to  blessedness,  and  foundation  rock  on  which  to  build 
all  our  hopes  of  i'edeinptioti  and  salvation.  A  precious  so- 
lemnity was  felt  to  prevail  in  those  several  meetings,  most  of 
which  were  crowded  gatherings,  many  more  often  collecting 
than  theii-  meeting-houses  could  contain  ;  and  truth  was  exalted 
over  all,  to  the  praise  of  Him  who  is  over  all,  God  blessed  for  ever. 

After  the  latter  meeting  we  proceeded  to  Salem,  intending  to 
be  at  Friends'  meeting  there  the  next  day,  which  was  first  day, 
the  19th  of  9th  month.  We  attended  the  meeting  in  the  fore- 
noon, but  not  feeling  myself  clear,  I  was  led  to  appouit  an  after- 
noon meeting ;  which  was  accordingly  held  at  the  third  hour, 
and  was  largely  attended  by  Friends  and  others ;  among  whom 
way  opened  fully  to  discharge  and  clear  myself,  and  I  found 
peace  in  my  labour  of  love  among  them. 

On  second  and  third  days,  1  attended  meetings  by  appoint- 
ment at  Springfield  and  Goshen,  two  neighbouring  villages. 
These  were  likewise  very  solemn  instructive  sehsons,  wherein  I 
was  largely  led  forth  in  ministerial  labour,  apparently  to  the 
comfort  and  edification  of  most  present.  From  Goshen  we 
returned  back  to  Salem,  intending  to  be  at  theii-  monthly  meet- 
ing to  be  held  the  next  day,  which  we  accordingly  attended.  I 
had  good  service  among  my  Friends,  both  in  the  meeting  for 
worship  and  that  for  discipline. 

After  this  we  took  a  fmal  leave  of  them,  in  the  fresh  feelings 
of  mutual  love  and  Christian  fellowship,  and  proceeded  on  our 
journey  that  afternoon  to  Fairfield,  where  we  had  a  meeting 
the  next  day.  On  sixth  day,  was  at  Columbiana.  On  seventh 
day,  at  Middleton.  And  on  first  day,  the  26th,  had  two  meet- 
ings ;  one  in  the  morning  at  Elk  Run,  and  the  other  at  the 
third  hour  in  the  afternoon  at  Carmel.  These  meetings  were 
all  well  attended  ;  wherein  I  was  led  forth  largely  in  testimony, 
apparently  to  the  general  satisfaction  and  edification  of  the  peo- 
ple, and  to  the  comfort  and  peace  of  my  own  mind. 

On  second  day  we  proceeded  to  New  Lisbon,  and  attended  a 
meeting  in  theLr  court-house  at  the  eleventh  hour.    It  was  a 


EI.IA9  niOKS. 


379 


large  collection,  mostly  made  up  of  other  societies,  t  here  being 
but  few  Friends  residing  in  that  place.  I  was  led  to  open  seve- 
ral doctrinal  points  of  our  profession,  and  to  show  the  great 
difference  between  profession  and  possession ;  and  that  no  pro- 
fession of  religion  was  worth  esteeming  as  any  thing,  unless  it 
was  the  effect  of  the  real  possession  of  the  thing  professed;  as 
no  profession  of  a  tiling,  could  of  itself  give  any  a  possession 
thereof ;  but  a  real  possession,  will  manifest  itself  by  its  fruits. 
It  was  a  day  of  great  favour,  in  which  truth  reigned  over  all. 

Oh  third  day,  we  proceeded  to  Beaver  Palls.  Had  a  meeting 
there  the  next  day  to  good  satisfaction.  After  this  we  travelled 
on  our  way  to  Pittsburg,  where  we  arrived  the  next  day  about 
noon,  and  had  an  appointed  meeting  there  in  the  evening  in 
their  court-house.  It  was  a  large  spacious  building,  but  more 
collected  than  the  house  could  contain.  I  had  much  service 
among  them,  and  the  Lord's  power  was  felt  to  preside,  quieting 
and  solemnizing  the  assembly ;  and  many  hearts  were  humbled 
and  contrited,  and  truth  raised  into  dominion  over  all. 

On  sixth  day  afternoon,  we  left  Pittsburg  on  our  way  to 
Brownsville,  where  we  arrived  in  the  afternoon  of  the  next  day. 
On  first  day  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  there ;  and  notice 
being  spread  among  the  people  at  large  that  we  were  there,  it 
was  a  very  crowded  assembly,  more  than  the  house  could  well 
contain.  Through  the  condescending  goodness  of  the  Shepherd 
of  Israel,  I  was  helped  to  discharge  myself  faithfully  among 
them,  in  an  effective  testimony  to  the  truths  of  the  gospel ; 
proving  from  clear  scripture  testimony,  accompanied  with  the 
demonstration  of  the  spirit,  in  harmony  with  right  reason,  that 
nothing  short  of  a  fidl  belief  in,  and  obedience  to,  the  revelation 
of  the  spirit  of  truth,  (a  manifestation  of  which  is  given  to  every 
man  and  woman  to  profit  withal,)  as  the  only  rule  of  faith  and 
practice,  can  make  a  real  Christian,  and  produce  redemption 
and  salvation  to  an  immortal  soul.  It  was  a  very  solemn 
instructive  season,  worthy  of  grateful  remembrance. 

On  second  day  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Sandy  Hill, 
at  the  tenth  hour ;  and  another  in  the  evening  at  Uniohtown, 
held  in  their  court-house.    These  were  both  seasons  of  favour, 


380 


JOURNAL  OF 


producing  solid  peace  to  my  own  mind,  and,  I  trust,  instmctive 
and  edifying  to  the  people  in  general  who  attended.  These 
meetings  closed  my  labours  among  Friends  and  others,  in  the 
compass  of  the  yearly  meeting  of  Ohio. 

On  third  day  we  set  out  on  our  journey  over  the  mountains, 
towards  Winchester  in  Virginia  ;  in  order  to  attend  the  meet- 
ings of  Friends  in  that  neighbom  hood,  on  our  way  to  Baltimore. 
The  distance  was  about  one  hundred  and  sixteen  miles.  It 
took  three  days  to  accomplish  the  journey,  with  hard  travelling ; 
a  considerable  part  of  the  way  being  very  rocky,  as  well  as 
mountainous.  We  arrived  among  Friends  at  Pughto\\Ti,  on 
fifth  day  evening ;  and  had  a  meeting  appointed  there  the  next 
day,  at  two  o'clock  in  the  afternoon,  which  we  attended  accord- 
ingly. On  seventh  day  had  a  meeting  at  the  Ridge.  On  first 
day  at  Centre,  near  Winchester  ;  and  the  two  following  days 
had  meetings  at  Hopewell  and  Berkley.  I  was  largely  led  forth 
in  these  meetings,  to  show  to  the  people  the  inconsistency  and 
unrighteousness  of  holding  our  fellow  creatures  in  bondage,  and 
the  evU  tendency  of  bringing  up  our  children  and  families  on 
the  fruits  of  their  labour,  wrested  from  them  by  violence,  with- 
out paying  them  an  adequate  reward  for  the  same.  I  likewise 
opened  to  them  the  foUy  and  deception  of  all  their  profession  of 
woi"shipping  that  Being,  who  is  perfect  in  justice,  purity  and 
holiness,  while  their  hands  are  full  of  violence  and  oppression, 
and  they  living  in  luxury  and  idleness  on  their  unrighteous 
gain.  The  Lord's  power  was  exalted  in  these  meetings,  and 
truth  reigned. 

After  the  latter  meeting  we  proceeded  on  our  way  towards 
Baltimore,  where  we  arrived  on  seventh  day  evening ;  attending 
meetings  at  Fredericktown  and  New  Market,  on  our  way 
thither.  On  first  day,  the  17th  of  10th  month,  I  attended 
Friends'  meetings  in  that  city  ;  the  Western  District  in  the 
morning,  and  the  Eastern  District  in  the  afternoon.  I  v/as 
silent  in  the  former,  but  in  the  latter,  I  was  largely  led  forth  in 
gospel  communication.  As  notice  had  been  spread  among  the 
citizens  of  other  professions,  the  meeting  was  large,  and  the 
divine  power  was  felt  to  preside,  which  brought  a  precious 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


381 


solemnity  over  the  meeting,  and  truth  was  raised  into  domi- 
nion. 

Here  we  met  with  our  friend  Elizabeth  Coggeshall  from  New- 
York,  with  her  companion  Judith  Coffin,  from  Nantucket;  also 
om-  ancient  friend  William  Rickman,  from  England.  We  were 
mutually  glad  in  seeing  each  other.  Elizabeth  felt  a  concern 
to  see  the  members  of  our  society,  select  from  those  of  other 
societies  in  each  meeting,  accordingly  a  Friend,  at  her  request, 
in  the  morning  meeting  when  the  service  of  the  first  meeting 
was  over,  proposed  the  same  to  the  assembly  ;  when  those  who 
were  not  members  quietly  withdrew,  and  our  dear  friend  had 
good  service  among  them.  This  also  opened  an  opportunity 
for  me  to  throw  in  my  mite,  and  set  a  seal  to  the  service.  A 
similar  opportunity  was  likewise  had  with  Friends  at  the  close 
of  the  afternoon  meeting  in  the  Eastern  District,  which  was 
also  a  favoured  time.         '  .  ;  ' 

And  asl  had  felt  my  mind  somewhat  similarly  engaged  in 
coming  into  the  city,  it  opened  the  way  to  spread  my  exercise 
before  Friends ;  which  was  that  of  the  more  select  service  of 
seeing  the  active  members  and  heads  of  families  of  both  sexes 
together.  I  had  an  opportunity  with  those  of  this  description  in 
the  Western  District,  and  afterwards  with  those  of  the  Eastern ; 
and  was  glad  in  believing  that  divine  love  was  near,  favouring 
with  His  enlivening,  reconciling  presence  ;  which  raised  a  hope, 
that  through  the  divine  blessing,  the  opportunities  would  not 
prove  altogether  unfruitful,  for  some  disunity  and  jealousies  had 
prevailed  among  the  members  of  society  in  this  city. 

The  next  day  being  Friends'  meeting  day,  I  felt  most  easy 
to  stay  and  attend  it.  I  also  found  my  mind  led  to  some  further 
service  among  the  citizens  at  large  :  for  although  I  had  had  a 
public  opportunity  on  first  day  evening,  which  seemed  for  the 
present  to  ease  my  mind,  yet  u  renewed  exercise  on  that  account 
induced  a  belief  it  would  be  right  to  give  the  citizens  generally 
another  invitation  ;  which  Friends  readily  agreed  to,  and  spread 
the  notice  accordingly.  It  was  a  very  large  meeting,  and 
through  gracious  condescension  a  highly  favoured  season  ;  the 
Lord's  power  was  felt  to  preside,  and  a  precious  solemnity  spread 


382 


JOURNAL  OF 


over  the  assembly,  and  I  took  my  leave  of  them  in  much  peace 
of  mind. 

This  closed  my  service  among  them.  The  two  following 
days  we  rode  to  Wilmington,  where  we  arrived  on  sixth  day 
evening.  On  seventh  day  evening  we  had  a  large  meeting  by 
appointment,  with  Friends  and  the  inhabitants  of  the  town. 
This  was  a  solemn  instructive  season,  worthy  of  grateful  re- 
membrance. We  also  attended  the  morning  meeting  of  Friends 
the  next  day,  and  then  proceeded  to  Chester,  parting  with  my 
Friends  in  much  sweet  peace  and  unity.  Here  we  had  a  large 
solemn  meeting  in  the  evening,  among  the  few  Friends  of  that 
place  and  the  inhabitants  of  the  town.  I  trust,  through 
heavenly  goodness,  it  proved  an  instructive  edifying  season  to 
man}^ 

The  two  following  days,  I  attended  the  monthly  meetings  of 
Providence  and  Darby.  On  fourth  day  morning  we  proceeded 
to  Philadelphia.  We  staid  in  the  city  until  the  following  third 
day,  and  attended  all  the  meetings  of  Friends  there  ;  some  by 
appointment,  and  the  others  as  they  came  in  course.  We  were 
at  two  of  their  monthly  meetings,  and  their  quarterly  meeting. 
The  meetings  were  generally  crowded,  and  at  several  many  of 
the  people  were  obliged  to  stand  outside  of  the  doors,  for  want 
of  room.  Through  unmerited  mercy  the  Ijord's  power  was  felt 
to  preside,  producing  a  precious  solemnity  over  those  large  pro- 
miscuous gatherings,  and  by  which  truth  was  raised  into  domi- 
nion. Surely  it  was  the  Lord's  doing,  and  marvellous  in  mine 
eyes.  It  was,  I  trust,  a  time  of  renewed  visitation  to  many, 
especially  to  the  beloved  youth. 

We  left  the  city  on  third  day  morning,  and  proceeded  to 
GermantouTi,  where  by  previous  appointment  we  had  a  large 
meeting  at  the  eleventh  hour.  The  two  following  days  we 
attended  Friends'  quarterly  meeting  at  Horsham ;  and  on  sixth 
day,  had  a  lai  ge  public  meeting  at  Byberry.  These  were  all 
favoured  instructive  seasons,  in  which  the  Lord's  presence 
was  manifested  for  our  help,  and  were  worthy  of  grateful 
remembrance. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


382 


On  seventh  day  we  attended  a  meeting  at  Bristol ;  and  at 
evening  crossed  the  river  Delaware  to  Burhngton,  and  attended 
Friends'  forenoon  and  afternoon  meetings  on  first  day.  These 
were  large  favoured  meetings,  in  which  truth  reigned. 

On  second  day,  the  8th  of  11th  month  we  proceeded  to  Trenton 
and  had  a  large  meeting  there  in  the  evening,  with  the  few 
Friends  of  that  place,  and  the  inhabitants  of  the  town,  in  which 
divers  essential  doctrines  of  the  gospel  were  opened  to  the  con- 
sideration of  the  assembly.  It  was  a  solemn  meeting,  and  I 
parted  with  them  m  true  peace  of  mind,  which  is  the  certain 
and  consolatory  result  of  disinterested  obedience,  and  faithfulness 
to  manifested  duty. 

We  proceeded  on  thiid  day,  on  our  way  to  New-York,  where 
we  arrived  the  next  day  in  season  to  attend  Friends'  meeting  in 
Pearl-street ;  it  being  their  usual  meeting  day.  The  meeting 
was  generally  gathered  when  I  got  in,  having  had  some 
distance  to  travel  to  reach  there,  which  occasioned  my  being  a 
few  minutes  after  the  time.  My  mind,  soon  after  taking  my 
seat,  was  brought  imder  a  renewed  exercise,  on  account  of  the 
members  of  our  society  mixing  in  with  the  associations  of  other 
people,  in  their  governments  and  politics,  their  Bible  and 
Missionary  societies,  and  pretended  charity  associations  ;  which 
had  a  very  hurtful  tendency,  l)y  leavening  the  minds  of 
Friends,  and  leading  them  to  assimilate  with  the  spirit  of  the 
world  ;  and  turning  them  away  from  the  simplicity,  of  our  pro- 
fession, thereby  neglecting  to  support  our  Christian  testimonies, 
as  it  regards  plainness  of  speech,  deportment,  and  apparel.  Such 
conduct  is  particularly  wounding  to  some  of  the  beloved  youth, 
for  they  seeing  their  elder  bretliien,  and  especially  some  who 
were  sometimes  active  in  our  meetings  for  discipline,  join  Avith 
such  associations,  it  leads  them  into  a  free  familiarity  and  friend- 
ship with  such  as  are  light  and  vain  in  their  conversation  and 
deportment,  by  which  their  tender  minils  are  greatly  wounded  ; 
and  they  led  off  frorri  the  cross,  and  a  strict  regard  to  that 
.sobriety  of  conduct,  which  truth  requires  of  all  its  professors. 
I  was  led  to  communicate  largely  on  those  subjects,  in  a  close 
searching  testimony  ;  and  the  Lord's  power  was  felt  to  prevail, 


384 


JOURNAL  OP 


and  the  meeting  generally  brought  under  a  solemn  covering. 
It  proved  a  season  of  favour,  and  the  right-minded  were  made 
to  rejoice. 

Feeling  my  mind  impressed  with  a  concern  to  appoint  a  meet- 
ing for  the  citizens  at  large,  the  appointment  was  accordingly 
made  at  seven  o'clock  the  ensuing  evening.  It  was  a  very  large 
collection,  more  than  the  house  could  contain ;  and  was  a  highly 
favoured  season.  A  very  precious  solemnity  was  spread  over 
the  assembly  in  general ;  and  Avhen  I  sat  down,  after  standing 
nearly  two  hours,  I  turned  my  eyes  over  the  congregation,  and 
all  was  quiet  and  still,  and  every  countenance  seemed  expres- 
sive of  the  solemnity  felt,  which  united  us  together  and  clothed 
us  as  with  a  mantle  of  love.  Surely  it  was  the  Lord's  doing, 
and  marvellous  in  our  eyes. 

The  next  day  I  attended  Friends'  meeting  near  the  Bowery, 
as  it  came  in  course ;  and  some  notice  being  given  of  my  intend- 
ing to  be  there,  we  had  the  company  of  a  number  of  their 
neighbours  of  other  societies.  This  was  also  a  very  instructive 
favoured  season. 

The  ensuing  evening  I  had  another  appointed  meeting  for 
the  citizens  at  large,  in  Friends'  meeting-house  at  Liberty-street. 
This  was  rather  a  trying  meeting ;  as  many  who  attended 
were  such  as  had  settled  down  in  a  form,  and  were  difficult  to 
reach,  which  makes  hard  labour  for  the  truly  exercised  minis- 
ters. However  I  had  a  hope  the  season  would  prove  profitable 
to  some,  and  1  left  them  with  peace  of  mind. 

This  meeting  closed  my  labours  in  this  journey,  and  the  next 
morning  we  rode  home,  the  12th  of  the  11th  month,  1819.  I 
found  my  family  and  friends  in  usual  health,  and  glad  to  see 
me,  which  rendered  it  a  cause  of  mutual  joy,  and  filled  my 
heart  with  gratitude  and  thanksgiving  to  the  God  and  Father 
of  all  our  sure  mercies,  who  had  led  about,  instructed  and  pre- 
served me,  through  all,  to  the  praise  of  his  great  and  excellent 
name. 

I  was  from  home  in  this  journey  about  three  months,  and 
travelled  nearly  twelve  hundred  miles,  and  attended  eighty-seven 
meetings. 


KLIAS  HICKS. 


385 


First  day,  14th.  I  sat  with  my  Friends  in  our  own  meeting, 
in  which  I  was  largely  led  forth  in  ministry,  setting  forth,  as  it 
opened  on  my  mind,  the  cause  why  so  little  progress  was  made 
in  reformation,  and  the  true  spiritual  or  real  Christian  life  ;  and 
showing  that  it  was  principally,  as  it  then  appeared  in  the  open- 
ings of  truth,  occasioned  by  the  visited  children  of  our  heavenly 
Father,  not  keeping  close  to  that  which  first  visited  them, 
and  opened  theii-  understanding  ;  but  letting  their  minds  out  to 
worldly  things,  and  that  by  opening  the  way  to  a  free  and 
familiar  converse  with  the  people  of  the  world,  many  were  led 
and  induced  thereby  to  join  with  them  in  their  manners,  max- 
ims, interests  and  worldly  policies,  by  which  means  they  were 
so  yoked  together  in  a  free  and  open  friendship,  as  thereby  to 
become  weakened  and  brought  into  bondage  to  them ;  so  as  to 
be  ashamed  and  afraid  to  stand  upright,  and  bear  a  faithful  testi- 
mony against  this  worldly  spirit  and  its  fruits ;  by  which  the 
testimonies  of  truth  were  in  a  great  measure  let  fall,  for  fear  of 
offending  these  their  worldly-minded  associates,  by  which  the 
promotion  of  the  cause  of  truth  was  greatly  obstructed,  and  its 
faithful  testimony-bearers  grieved,  and  made  to  go  mourning  on 
their  way. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  monthly  meeting,  in  which  I  also 
had  some  close  searching  labour  to  stir  up  Friends  to  more  dili- 
gence and  faithfulness  in  the  support  of  our  Christian  testimo- 
nies ;  and  cautioning  them  against  a  worldly  spirit,  which  would 
lead  to  extortion  and  grinding  the  faces  of  the  poor  ;  for  this  is 
very  reproachful  for  any  Christian  professor,  and  more  so  for  us, 
who  are  making  a  more  exalted  profession  than  any  others  who 
go  imder  the  Christian  name. 

First  day,  the  21st.  My  mind  to-day  was  led  into  a  near 
feeling  sympathy  with  such  as  had  been  visited  with  the  day- 
spring  from  on  high,  but  who  had  not  so  fully  given  up  to  the 
pointing  of  truth,  in  what  are  generally  termed  little  things,  as 
they  ought ;  the  natural  tendency  of  which  is  to  lead  the  mind 
into  a  doubting  state.  For  when  the  creature,  in  his  own  vnll, 
takes  the  liberty  of  judging  for  himself,  of  what  is  little,  or  what 
is  great,  he  departs  from  the  true  standard,  and  has  no  certain 

49 


3SG 


JOURNAL  OP 


evidence  to  walk  by :  for  if  he  has  a  right  to  judge  for  himself  in 
one  case,  why  not  in  every  other.  Here  doubting  will  arise  in 
his  mind,  of  what  is,  or  is  not,  agreeable  to  the  diA-ine  will ;  as 
nothing  can  give  the  mind  certain  evidence,  but  faithfidly  com- 
plying with  the  evident  sensations  which  the  hght  of  truth  opens 
upon  it.  let  them  be  what  the  creature  may  judge  to  be  small  or 
great ;  for  we  have  no  more  reason  or  right  to  refuse  complying 
with  a  small  letjuisilion,  than  we  have  a  great  one,  if  the 
requisition  proceeds  from  the  same  source.  The  subject  was  so 
opened  as  to  affect  many  minds  with  tenderness  and  contrition  ; 
and  had  an  humbling,  solemnizing  effect  on  the  meeting  in 
general,  and  was,  I  believe,  gladdening  to  man}'  minds. 

Fifth  day.  Attended  our  meeting  in  silence,  which  was  very 
acceptable  to  me. 

First  day,  the  2Sth.    Mostly  silent  in  meeting  to-day. 

On  my  return  home  from  my  late  journey,  I  felt  my  mind 
drawn  in  sympathy,  attended  with  a  concern  to  pay  a  religious 
visit  to  the  neighlx)uruig  inhabitants  in  the  compass  of  our  quar- 
terly meeting.  This  concern  I  opened  to  my  friends  the  first 
monthly  meeting  after  my  return,  and  received  their  full  unity 
therein  ;  but  taking  a  severe  cold  soon  after  I  came  home,  1  con- 
tinued indisposed  for  some  weeks,  which  with  some  necessary 
concerns,  prevented  my  entering  on  the  visit,  until  after  our  suc- 
ceefling  monthly  meeting.  The  fourth  day  following,  the  22d 
of  12lh  month,  I  proceeded  therein,  accompanied  by  my  wife 
and  my  kinsman,  Isaac  Hicks,  of  Westbury.  We  were  from 
home  five  days,  and  attended  six  meetings,  mostly  among  those 
of  other  societies.  It  was  a  time  of  deep  exercise  to  me,  being  led 
in  the  line  of  searching  labour,  pointing  to  a  reform  in  manners 
and  conduct;  and  showing  the  fallacy  of  aU  ceremonial  religion 
in  the  observation  of  days,  and  compljong  with  outward  ordi- 
nances ;  which  do  not  m  the  least  tend  to  make  the  comers 
thereunto  a  whit  the  better,  as  it  respects  the  conscience,  but 
lead  the  observers  thereof  mto  a  form,  without  the  power. 

We  returned  home  the  following  second  day.  I  tarried  at 
home  until  the  beginning  of  the  next  week,  when  feeling  my 
mind  drawn  to  attend  the  monthly  mectmg  of  Friends  in  New- 


ET.TAS  HTCK?!. 


387 


York,  I  again  left  home,  accompanied  by  the  aforesaid  friend. 
We  were  at  the  monthly  meeting  on  fourth  day,  in  which  I  had 
some  close  exercise,  the  meeting  having  mucli  business  before  it, 
and  one  case  in  particular  was  very  trying,  in  which  Friejids 
were  di\nded,  and  two  or  three  imqualified  individuals  seemed 
determined,  for  a  considerable  time,  to  compel  the  meeting  to 
comply  with  their  unsanctified  wills ;  but  as  Friends  who  were 
rightly  exercised,  patiently  kept  up  the  travail,  and  withstood 
them,  truth  was  raised  into  dominion,  and  by  its  power  silenced 
all  theii'  cavilling,  and  united  the  meeting  in  a  right  conclusion. 
The  meeting  for  worship  and  that  for  discipline  continued 
upwards  of  six  hours. 

We  left  the  city  soon  after  the  close  of  this  long  meeting,  and 
passed  over  the  river  to  Brooklyn,  where  by  previous  appointment 
we  had  a  meeting  that  evening,  composed  of  the  different  pro- 
fessions of  the  inhabitants  of  that  place,  very  few  Friends  resi- 
ding there.  The  meeting  was  pretty  large,  and  in  the  main 
satisfactory.  The  next  day  we  proceeded  to  Flushing,  and 
attended  their  monthly  meeting.  I  was  silent  in  the  meeting 
for  worship,  but  had  some  good  service  in  that  for  discipline. 
We  also  had  an  appointed  meeting  in  the  evening  for  the  inhabit- 
ants of  the  town,  which  was  large  and  solemn.  The  next  day 
we  returned  to  NeA\  town,  and  had  a  meeting  at  Friends'  meet- 
ing-house at  the  Kilns  in  that  place,  at  the  eleventh  hour; 
and  another  in  the  evening  at  the  sixth  hour,  in  the  village. 
They  were  both  favoured  meetings.  We  returned  to  Flushing 
after  the  latter  meeting,  and  lodged  with  our  kind  friend  Walter 
Farrington,  and  the  next  day  rode  home  and  found  my  family 
well. 

First  day,  the  9th  of  1st  month,  1820.  I  sat  with  my  friends 
at  home  in  our  oAvn  meeting  to-day,  which  I  considered  as  no 
small  privilege. 

On  second  day  morning  I  was  early  informed,  that  my  kins- 
man and  kind  fellow  traveller  Isaac  Hicks,  was  taken  with  a 
severe  illness,  about  ten  o'clock  the  preceding  evening,  and  lay 
at  the  point  of  death.  I  hastened  to  see  him,  and  found  him 
nearly  breathing  his  last,  being  past  noticing  any  thing  by  his 


38S 


JOURNAL  OP 


external  senses.  It  was  a  sudden  and  unexpected  trial  to  me,  to 
be  thus  almost  instantaneously  separated  from  such  a  kind  and 
valued  friend,  who  had  for  a  number  of  years  devoted  himself  in 
divers  ways,  to  promote  the  cause  of  truth  aind  righteousness  in 
the  earth ;  and  in  particular,  by  encouraging  and  accompanying 
Friends  in  the  ministry,  when  travelling  in  truth's  service, 
especially  myself,  having  been  with  me  in  several  long  journeys, 
as  well  as  divers  short  ones.  I  parted  with  him  at  the  close 
of  one  of  the  latter,  on  the  seventh  day  afternoon  before  his 
death,  at  his  own  house,  and  apparently  in  usual  health : 
although  he  had  been  for  a  considerable  time  previous  thereto, 
much  afflicted,  at  times,  with  severe  pain  in  his  breast  and  short- 
ness of  breath,  which  created  great  suffering  dtumg  their  con- 
tinuance. He  had  a  return  thereof  the  evening  before  I  last 
parted  with  him,  which  occasioned  him  to  observe  to  me,  that 
he  thought  he  slurtild  ere  long  be  taken  off  in  one  of  those 
attacks ;  but  I  then  thought  quite  otherwise,  as  in  other  respects 
he  appeared  to  be  in  very  good  health,  and  had  a  very  healthy 
countenance. 

Such  sudden  attacks  prove  with  indubitable  evidence,  that 
mortality  is  so  closely  interwoven  in  the  very  constitution  of 
these  animal  bodies,  that  the  present  moment  is  the  only  time 
we  can  call  oiu-  own  ;  and  which  continually  announce  the 
impressive  language  :  "  Be  ye  therefore  ready." 

Such  sudden  and  imexpected  separations  from  our  endeared 
friends  make  the  loss  seem  greater,  not  only  to  their  families  and 
near  connexions,  but  to  their  friends  in  general,  and  particularly 
so  to  those  who  knew  their  real  worth.  But  it  ever  affords  a 
soothing  consolation,  and  induces  to  acquiesce  in  the  divine 
will,  when  we  have  evident  cause  to  hope  that  our  loss,  which 
is  but  for  a  short  time,  is  their  eternal  gain. 

I  attended  the  fimeral  of  my  beloved  friend,  which  was  large 
and  solemn  ;  and  I  was  led  forth  in  an  impressive  testimony  to 
the  truths  of  the  gospel ;  inviting  the  people  to  inquire,  and  see, 
and  taste  for  themselves,  that  the  Lord  is  good. 

I  continued  at  home  until  the  following  seventh  day,  when  I 
again  proceeded  on  my  \-isit  to  the  neighbouring  towns  and 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


389 


villages.  I  was  from  home  about  thirteen  days  and  attended 
fifteen  meetings,  returning  home  on  sixth  day,  the  11th  of  2d 
month,  1820.  My  service  in  many  of  those  opportunities  was 
very  arduous  ;  the  lukewarmness  and  insensibility  of  the  people, 
as  to  any  right  religious  concern,  make  hard  work  for  the  honest 
labourers,  in  this  day  of  ease  and  carnal  security.  But  true 
peace  of  mind,  the  sure  result  of  faithfulness,  crowns  the  attempts 
at  doing  good,  as  it  makes  hard  things  easy  and  bitter  things 
sweet. 

I  tarried  at  home  until  the  latter  end  of  the  next  week,  in  the 
course  of  which  I  had  a  very  severe  attack  of  bodily  indisposi- 
tion, occasioned  by  the  gravel,  with  which  I  have  been  afflicted 
at  times,  for  near  twenty  years.  These  warnings  are  designed 
to  spur  us  on  to  our  duty,  as  they  continually  announce  to 
the  enlightened  mind  this  very  usefid  memento  :  "  Remember 
to  die." 

In  the  latter  end  of  the  week,  there  came  to  my  house  my 
much  esteemed  friend  and  kinsman  Edward  Hicks,  from  New- 
town, in  Bucks  county,  Pennsylvania,  on  a  religious  visit  to  our 
parts,  with  his  companion  James  Walton,  an  elder.  I  accom 
panied  them  the  next  day  to  a  meeting  they  had  appointed  at 
Westbury.  It  was  very  large,  in  Avhich  Edward  had  very  good 
service,  being  largely  led  forth  to  open  to  the  people  many  im- 
portant doctrines  of  the  Christian  religion.  I  accompanied  him 
to  all  the  meetings  he  had  among  us  except  one  ;  and  in  some 
of  them  had  a  jwrtion  of  the  service  laid  upon  me,  particularly 
in  the  meeting  nt  Bethpage. 

I  accompanied  my  friend  to  four  meetings  after  this,  in  which 
he  was  generally  favoured  to  open  things  suitable  to  the  states 
of  the  people  ;  his  gift  being  searching  and  lively.  After  his 
service  was  over  in  the  meeting  at  Cowneck,  on  first  day,  I  was 
led  forth  in  a  short  testimony  ;  and  the  meeting  closed  under 
an  evident  sense  that  truth  reigned.  Our  next  meeting  was 
the  day  following  at  Rockaway,  on  second  day,  the  28th  of  2d 
month.  It  was  in  tlie  main  a  favoured  opportunity.  My  part 
was  to  sit  in  silence.  After  this  meeting  I  parted  with  my 
beloved  friend  and  his  companion,  in  tlie  fellowship  of  the  gos- 


390 


JOTONAL  OF 


pel ;  they  proceeded  towards  New- York,  and  I  returned  home 
that  evening,  and  found  my  family  well. 

First  day,  the  5th  of  3d  month.  I  attended  our  own  meeting, 
which  through  heavenly  help  proved  a  very  precious  instructive 
season.  It  was  larger  than  usual,  many  coming  in  who  did 
not  often  attend,  to  whom  the  gospel  was  preached  in  the  de- 
monstration of  the  spirit,  through  which  truth  was  raised  into 
dominion,  causing  the  hearts  of  many  to  be  warmed  within 
them  by  the  influence  of  its  power,  and  manifesting  itself  by 
much  brokenness  and  contrition  of  spiiit. 

Second  day,  the  13th.  Attended  the  funeral  of  om-  friend 
Charles  Frost,  at  which  there  was  a  large  collection  of  friends 
and  neighbours.  A  meeting  was  held  on  the  occasion,  which 
was  a  favoured  one,  and,  I  trust,  a  profitable  opportunity  to  some 
present,  and  worthy  of  grateful  remembrance. 

In  the  fall  of  1820,  being,  with  several  other  friends,  on  an 
appointment  from  the  yearly  meeting,  requiring  our  care  and 
attention  in  the  northern  quarters,  and  having  for  some  time 
previously  felt  my  mind  drawn  to  visit  some  of  the  meetings  of 
Friends,  within  the  compass  of  Farmington  and  Duanesburgh 
quarterly  meetings,  I  obtained  the  unity  and  concurrence  of  my 
Friends  at  home  to  attend  thereto,  after  accomplishing  the  ser- 
vice of  the  yearly  meeting.  I  accordingly  set  out  in  the  9th 
month,  and  was  favoured  to  go  through  the  visit  with  peace  to 
my  own  mind  ;  for  He,  who  is  the  alone  sure  helper  of  all  his 
dependant  children,  gi  aciously  manifested  himself  to  be  near,  for 
my  help  and  encouragement  in  the  travail  and  exercise  that  I 
was  engaged  in,  for  the  promotion  of  his  noble  cause  of  truth 
and  righteousness  in  the  earth  ;  and  in  a  way,  that  was  often 
marvellous  in  mine  eyes,  tending  to  inspire  my  soul  witli  deep 
and  humble  gratitude  and  thanksgiving,  for  the  unmerited 
favour. 

In  the  summer  of  1822,  I  opened  to  my  Friends  a  prospect, 
which  for  a  considerable  time  had  been  impressive  on  my  mind, 
to  make  a  visit  in  the  love  of  the  gospel,  to  Friends  and  others 
in  some  parts  of  the  yearly  meeting  of  Philadelphia  ;  and,  if 
way  should  open  for  it,  to  visit  some  of  the  families  of  Friends  in 


ELI  A3  HICKS.  391 

that  city,  and  also  to  attend  the  yearly  meeting  at  Baltimore. 
They  united  with  me  in  the  concern,  and  left  me  at  liberty  to 
proceed  therein.    I  set  out  in  the  7th  month,  with  David  Sea- 
man as  my  companion.    We  had  a  large  favoured  meeting  at 
Flushing,  which  was  strengthenmg  and  comforting  to  my  mind, 
in  first  setting  out  in  this  arduous  engagement,  and  excited 
gratitude  for  the  unmerited  mercy.    After  leaving  Flushing  on 
our  way  to  New- York,  my  prospect  of  a  meeting  at  Hester- 
street,  which  I  had  a  view  of  several  weeks  before  I  left  home, 
revived  with  renewed  weight ;  and  although  from  the  conster- 
nation and  interrupted  state  of  the  citizens,  owing  to  the  preva- 
lence of  fever  in  the  city,  I  had  given  up  the  prospect  on  leaving 
home,  yet  I  now  saw  that  I  could  not  depart  from  the  city  with 
a  quiet  mind,  unless  I  had  a  meeting  agreeably  to  my  former 
view.    Accordingly,  when  I  got  into  town  I  opened  my  concern 
to  some  of  my  friends  there,  who  readily  imited  therewith,  and 
notice  was  given  ;  and  one  of  the  Friends  who  attended  about 
the  door  at  the  gathering  of  the  meetuig,  said  there  were  more 
people  collected  than  had  ever  been  at  any  former  time  in  that 
place  ;  several  hundreds,  he  said,  went  away,  who  could  not 
get  into  the  house  for  want  of  room.    I  had  a  full  opportunity 
to  clear  my  mind  among  the  people,  most  of  whom  were  very 
solid  and  attentive.    Thus  we  have  great  cause  of  gratitude  to 
the  gracious  Care-taker  of  his  faithfully  devoted  children,  who 
opens  a  way  for  them,  when  some  are  ready  to  conclude  there 
is  no  way.    But  he  opens  a  way  for  those,  which  none  but 
himself  can  shut,  to  the  praise  of  his  own  great  and  adorable 
name,  who  ia  over  all,  blessed  for  ever. 

We  then  proceeded  to  Newark,  and  had  a  meeting  in  the 
rx)urt-house.  There  was  a  pretty  large  collection  of  the  inhabit- 
ants, among  whom  I  had  strength  and  utterance  given  to  open 
many  important  doctrines  of  the  Christian  religion,  in  a  clear  and 
impressive  manner,  which  appeared  sensibly  to  affect  and  impress 
the  minds  of  the  sober  and  well  inclined ;  but  many  appeared 
very  ignorant  and  inexperienced  as  to  the  real  truths  of  the 
gospel.  But  having  fully  cleared  my  mind  among  them,  I  left 
tlicm  with  the  answer  of  peace,  and  proceeded  to  Plainfield.  We 


392  JOURNAL  OF 

attended  the  meeting  there,  which  was  large  for  the  place  ;  and 
it  was  favoured  in  an  eminent  manner,  to  our  mutual  comfort. 
We  then  rode  to  Kingwood,  and  had  a  full  and  comfortable 
meeting  there ;  after  which  we  went  to  Solebury,  iri  Pennsyl- 
vania, and  had  a  meeting  at  the  sixth  hour  in  the  evening.  It 
was  a  large  meeting,  in  whicli  I  was  led  to  discharge  myself 
faithfully  in  a  close  searching  testhnony.  It  was  a  very  solemn 
quiet  opportunity,  and  I  parted  with  them  in  peace  of  mind. 

We  afterwards  attended  meetings  at  Buckingham,  Plumbstead, 
Wrightstown,  Makefield,  and  Newtown  :  and  we  have  abundant 
cause  to  bless  the  name  of  Israel's  unslumbering  Shepherd,  who 
hath  graciouiily  condescended  to  manifest  his  presence  and  power 
for  our  help  and  support,  opening  my  way  in  a  marvellous  manner 
in  all  the  meetings  I  have  attended  since  I  left  home,  uniting  my 
friends  in  a  joint  travail  for  the  promotion  of  his  blessed  cause ; 
truth  prevailing  in  every  meeting,  and  running  as  precious  oint- 
ment over  the  assemblies,  bearing  down  all  opposition,  and 
spreading,  by  its  power,  a  sweet  and  precious  solemnity  over  all. 
Surely  it  is  the  Lord's  doing,  and  marvellous  in  our  eyes :  and 
what  is  the  greatest  cause  of  gratitude  and  thanksgiving  to  the 
benevolent  Author  of  all  our  richest  blessings,  is,  that  he  causes 
all  these  favours  to  bow  my  spirit  in  deep  humiliation  and  fear 
before  him,  as  unworthy  of  the  least  of  his  mercies.  To  the 
sufficiency  of  his  grace,  may  all  the  praise  and  glory  be  ascribed, 
nothing  due  to  man. 

We  then  attended  meetings  at  Horsham,  Upper  Dublin,  North 
Wales,  Plymouth,  Providence,  Pikeland,  Westchester,  London 
Grove,  and  Deer  Creek ;  and  my  spirit  is  humbled  in  a  deep 
feeling  sense  of  the  Lord's  goodness  vouchsafed  for  our  help, 
opening  a  way  in  the  minds  of  my  friends  generally  to  receive 
the  testimonies  given  me  to  bear,  for  the  promotion  of  his  righteous 
cause,  with  marks  of  apparent  joy  and  satisfaction,  and  to  om" 
mutual  comfort.  We  reached  Baltimore  on  the  25th  of  10th 
month ;  and  the  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders  was  opened 
on  the  next  day  at  the  tenth  hour.  The  yearly  meeting  con- 
tinued till  sixth  day  evening,  and  was  acknowledged  to  be  the 
Jargest  and  the  most  favoured  meeting  they  had  known  for 


ELIA8  HICKS. 


several  years  past.  The  unity  of  Friends  with  my  exercises  in 
the  pubhc  meetings,  and  in  those  for  disciphne,  was  truly  grateftd, 
and  tended  to  humble  and  inspire  my  mind  with  gratitude  and 
thanksgiving  to  my  heavenly  Father. 

I  did  not  feel  myself  at  liberty  to  leave  the  city  at  the  close  of 
the  yearly  meeting,  believing  that  some  more  pubhc  service 
among  the  people  was  required  of  me.  I  had  accordingly  a 
public  meeting  in  the  Eastern  District,  on  seventh  day  evening. 
It  was  very  large ;  and  among  the  various  subjects  that  opened 
for  communication  to  those  assembled,  I  was  led  to  expose  the 
iniquity  and  deformity  of  the  cruel  practice  of  holding  our  fellow 
creatures  in  bondage,  and  the  injustice  and  inconsistency  of 
Friends  doing  any  act  where  the  right  of  slavery  was  acknow- 
ledged and  supported ;  and,  I  think,  I  was  enabled  to  do  it  in  a 
more  full  and  impressive  manner  than  ever  before.  We  had  a 
very  interesting  aad  solemn  meeting ;  truth  appeared  to  gain 
the  victory,  and  reigned  over  all.  On  first  day  I  attended  Friends' 
meetings  for  the  Western  District,  both  in  the  forenoon  and  after- 
noon. They  were  very  large ;  and  I  had  a  full  opportunity  in 
the  morning  of  clearing  myself  among  them.  We  had  a  precious, 
powerful  meeting ;  and  among  the  divers  states  addressed,  the 
slave-holders  were  peculiarly  the  objects  of  my  exercise  and 
concern.  The  afternoon  meeting  I  sat  in  silence,  except  the 
expression  of  a  few  words  just  at  the  close,  in  taking  leave  of  them, 
and  bidding  all  farewell. 

In  the  evening  I  had  a  precious  interesting  opportunity  with 
the  coloured  people,  in  Friends'  meeting-house  in  the  Western 
District.  It  was  said  by  Friends  to  be  much  the  largest  known 
in  that  place.  It  was  a  very  quiet,  solemn  meeting ;  and  the 
minds  of  all,  both  white  and  coloured,  seemed  animated  with 
gladness  and  joy  for  the  favour  dispensed,  and  gave  manifestations 
of  their  thankfidness  and  gratitude  for  the  opportunity. 

We  then  proceeded  towards  Philadelphia,  attending  several 
meetings  on  our  way,  which  were  greatly  favoured,  and  crowned 
with  the  divine  presence  and  power,  in  such  a  manner  as  to  be 
marvellous  in  our  eyes. 

50 


394 


JOURNAL  OF 


We  arrived  in  Philadelphia  in  the  early  part  of  12th  month  ; 

and  I  immediately  entered  on  the  arduous  concern  which  1  had 
had  in  prospect,  and  which  I  was  favoured  soon  comfortably  to 
accomplish.  We  visited  the  families  composing  Green-street 
monthly  meeting,  being  in  number  about  one  hundred  and  forty; 
and  we  also  attended  that  monthly  meeting,  and  the  monthly 
meeting  for  the  Northern  District.  This  closed  my  visit  there, 
and  set  me  at  liberty  to  turn  my  face  homeward.  We  left  Phila- 
delphia on  the  25th  of  12th  month,  and  attended  several  meetings 
in  Pennsylvania  and  New  Jersey,  on  our  way  home,  which 
were  large  and  solemn  opportunities.  We  were  favoiired  to 
reach  our  homes  with  feelings  of  thanksgiving  to  our  gracious 
Preserver,  and  with  the  enjoyment  of  that  precious  peace,  which 
is  experienced  by  those  whose  minds  are  stayed  on  God ;  as  the 
prophet  declared  in  his  appeal  to  Jehovah :  "  Thou  wilt  keep 
him  in  perfect  peace,  whose  mind  is  stayed  on  thee,  because  he 
trusteth  in  thee."    And  he  subjoins,  for  our  encouragement  : 

Trust  in  the  Lord  for  ever  ;  for  in  the  Lord  Jehovah  is  ever- 
lasting stiength."  May  we  all  dwell  here ;  then  nothing  can 
hurt  or  harm  us ;  for  the  Lord  our  Preserver  will  turn  all  the 
designs  and  cunning  devices  of  those  that  rise  up  against  us 
upon  their  own  heads,  and  cause  them  to  fall  into  their  own  pit. 

In  the  latter  part  of  1823,  I  felt  myself  engaged  to  make  a 
religious  visit  to  Friends  and  others  in  several  of  the  lower  quar- 
terly meetings ;  and  having  obtained  the  unity  of  my  friends,  I  set 
out  in  the  10th  month,  with  Samuel  Willis  as  my  companion. 
After  having  meetings  at  Westchester  and  Mamaroneck,  we 
attended  the  select  quarterly  meeting  at  Purchase,  which  was 
small,  many  of  the  members  being  absent.  They  appeared  to 
be  clothed  with  much  weakness  :  I  was  led  into  a  feeling  sympa- 
thy with  them,  and  way  was  opened  to  communicate  to  their 
states,  in  a  way  that  was  comforting  and  encouraging  to  the 
honest-hearted.  The  next  day  was  the  quarterly  meeting  of 
discipline.  It  was  large ;  and,  I  think,  in  the  main  it  was  a 
favoured  instructive  season,  although  considerably  hurt  by  a  long 
tedious  communication  from  a  Friend,  not  sufficiently  clothed 
with  life  to  make  it  useful.    Bui  the  society  is  in  such  a  mixed 


ELIAS  HICKS.  , 

and  unstable  state,  and  many  who  presume  to  be  teachers  in  it 
are  so  far  from  keeping  on  the  original  foundation,  the  light  and 
spirit  of  truth,  and  are  so  built  up  in  mere  tradition,  that  I  fear 
a  gi'eat  portion  of  the  mii^istry  amongst  us  is  doing  more  harm 
than  good,  and  is  leading  back  to  the  weak  and  beggarly  elements 
to  which  some  seem  desirous  to  be  again  in  bondage. 

After  leaving  Purchase,  we  had  a  pretty  large  and  favoured 
meeting  at  North  Castle  ;  and  next  day  we  went  to  Oblong,  and 
attended  tlieir  meeting  on  first  day.  It  was  large,  and  I  had  an 
open  time  among  them,  through  the  prevalence  of  that  power 
which  opens  and  none  can  shut,  and  when  he  shuts  none  can 
open.  Truth  reigned,  and  the  people  generally,  I  believe,  were 
instructed,  comforted,  and  edified.  T  parted  with  them  in  true 
peace  of  mind,  which  leads  my  heart  into  deep  humility,  and 
inspires  it  with  gratitude  and  thanksgiving  to  the  great  and 
blessed  Author  of  all  our  mercies.  We  had  a  meeting  at  ihp 
Branch,  and  then  proceeded  to  Nine  Partners,  and  attended  file 
select  quarterly  meeting.  It  was  much  hke  some  other  meetings 
of  this  kind,  hard  and  not  very  fruitful.  The  members  of  thosp 
meetings  are  too  generally  falling  more  short  of  coming  up  faith- 
fully, according  to  their  stations,  than  most  of  the  other  depart- 
ments of  our  society.  We  attended  the  quarterly  meeting  for 
discipline,  also  that  at  Stanford,  and  soon  after  turned  our  faces 
homeward  ;  where  we  arrived,  accompanied  with  the  fresh  feel- 
ings of  that  love  that  many  waters  cannot  quench  ;  even  that 
powerful  love  that  is  stronger  than  death,  and  binds  together  in 
an  indissoluble  bond,  all  the  new-born  children  of  the  heavenly 
Father.  May  we  all  seek  for  it,  and  dwell  in  it.  It  will  cast 
out  all  fear,  and  clothe  with  that  innocent  boldness,  which  will 
enable  us  to  withstand  all  the  dark  powers  of  antichrist  and  hia 
agents,  and  all  their  deceivableness  of  unrighteousness ;  and 
will  raise  above  the  fear  of  death,  with  all  his  mis-shapen  and 
ugly  forms,  and  clothe  with  the  joys  of  God's  salvation  here  and 
for  ever,  as  we  continue  steadfast  in  the  faith  that  overcomes  the 
world.  , 


396 


JOURNAL  OF 


CHAPTER  XVII. 

I 

Visit  to  Baltimore  to  attend  the  yearly  meeting  in  1824. — Visit  to  the  inhabitants 
of  the  eastern  part  of  Long  Island  in  1825. — Visit  to  Scipio  quarterly  meeting 
in  1825. — Visit  to  Southern  and  Concord  quarterly  meetings  in  Pennsylvania 
in  1826. — Visit  to  the  families  of  Friends  in  Jericho  and  Westbury  monthly 
meetings  in  1827. — Visit  to  Friends  in  some  parU  of  New  Jersey,  Pennsylva- 
nia and  Ohio  in  1828. 

In  the  summer  of  1824,  I  had  the  concurrence  of  my  friends 
to  attend  the  quarterly  meeting  of  Cornwall  and  Stanford,  which 
I  accomplished  to  my  own  peace  and  comfort.  And  in  the  fall 
of  the  same  year,  they  also  united  with  a  concern  which  had 
impressed  my  mind,  to  attend  the  ensuing  yearly  meeting  in 
Baltimore.  This  engagement,  through  the  mercy  of  Him  who 
has  hitherto  helped  me,  I  was  favoured  to  accomplish  to  the 
peace  and  satisfaction  of  my  own  mind.  The  yearly  meeting 
for  discipline  opened  on  second  day,  and  continued  by  adjourn- 
ments until  the  following  fifth  day,  in  the  afternoon  of  which  it 
closed,  under  a  comfortable  evidence  of  divine  favour  attending. 
I  think  it  was,  in  its  several  sittings,  one  of  the  most  satisfactory 
yearly  meetings  I  ever  attended,  and  the  business  was  conducted 
in  much  harmony  and  brotherly  love. 

In  Philadelphia,  on  my  return,  I  had  a  severe  attack  of  bodily 
indisposition ;  so  that,  for  some  time,  there  seemed  bat  little 
prospect  of  my  recovery.  I  lodged  at  the  house  of  my  very 
kind  friend  Samuel  R.  Fisher,  who,  Avith  his  Avorthy  children, 
extended  to  me  the  most  affectionate  care  and  attention ;  and  I 
had  also  the  kind  sympathy  of  a  large  portion  of  Friends  in 
that  city. 

In  the  summer  of  1825,  I  obtained  the  concurrence  of  my 
friends  to  make  a  visit,  in  gospel  love,  to  the  inhabitants  of  the 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


397 


eastern  part  of  Long  Island,  and  I  proceeded  therein,  with 
Samuel  Willis  as  my  companion.  The  people  appeared  open 
to  receive  us,  and  the  meetings  at  the  several  places  we  visit- 
ed, were  pretty  fully  attended.  Many  minds  were  humbled 
and  contrited,  and  truth's  testimonies  exalted,  and  the  people 
generally  comforted,  and,  I  trust,  edified. 

In  the  fall  of  1825,  being  on  an  appointment  of  the  yearly 
meeting  to  attend  the  opening  of  Scipio  quarterly  meeting,  I 
obtained  the  unity  of  my  friends  to  attend  some  meetings  among 
Friends  and  others,  on  my  way  going  and  returning.  The 
quarterly  meeting  in  its  several  sittings,  was  conducted  in  much 
apparent  harmony  and  condescension  ;  the  truth  was  so  effect- 
ually raised  into  dominion  over  all,  that  if  there  were  any  dis- 
cordant spirits  present,  they  were  all  kept  down  and  subdued 
by  the  prevalence  of  its  power  ;  and  Friends  were  united  in  the 
bond  of  brotherly  affection,  and  the  faithful  were  made  to  rejoice 
for  the  unmerited  favour.  The  meeting  closed  on  the  30th  of 
9th  month,  with  a  very  large  solemn  public  meeting  ;  the  pub- 
lic service  therein  fell  to  the  lot  of  Thankful  Merritt  and  myself, 
and  Thankful  closed  the  ineeting  in  sweet  solemn  supplication. 
In  returning  home,  I  attended  several  meetings  which  were 
large,  and,  through  the  condescending  goodness  of  the  Shepherd 
of  Israel,  were  favoured  satisfactory  seasons,  in  which  truth  was 
raised  into  dominion,  and  a  precious  solemnity  prevailed. 

In  the  latter  part  of  1826,  my  friends  united  \vith  a  concern, 
which  had  been  for  a  considerable  time  impressive  on  my  mind, 
to  make  a  visit  in  the  love  of  the  gospel,  to  Southern  and 
Concord  quarterly  meetings,  in  the  yearly  meeting  of  Philadel- 
phia. I  accordingly  set  out  in  the  11th  month,  with  Jesse  Mer- 
ritt as  my  companion.  In  passing  through  Philadelphia,  we 
attended  Mulberry-street  meeting  in  the  forenoon,  and  Green- 
street  in  the  afternoon.  They  were  both  very  large  meetings, 
many  more  coming  together  than  the  houses  could  contain. 
Truth  was  powerfully  raised  into  dominion,  and  at  the  close  of 
each  meeting,  many  Friends  rnanifested,  in  an  affectionate 
manner,  their  unity  and  satisfaction  with  my  labours  amongst 
them.    We  then  proceeded  on  the  further  service  on  which  we 


398 


JOURNAL  OF 


had  set  out,  taking  several  meetings  on  the  way,  which  were  large 
and  solemn  opportunities,  and  favoured  with  the  overshadowing 
wing  of  divine  kindness ;  and  having  accomplished  the  prospects 
in  view,  we  turned  our  faces  homewards,  having  thankfully  to 
acknowledge  that  best  help  had  been  near,  enabling  me  to  dis- 
charge myself  faithfully  in  the  various  meetings,  to  the  comfort 
and  peace  of  ray  own  mind. 

In  the  early  part  of  1827,  with  the  unity  of  my  friends,  I 
entered  into  the  engagement  of  making  a  religious  visit  to  the 
families  of  Friends  within  our  own  and  Westbury  monthly 
meeting,  and  I  was  favoured  to  go  through  this  arduous  service 
to  the  satisfaction  and  peace  of  my  own  mind. 

Having  felt  an  exercise  and  travail  of  spirit  in  the  course  of 
last  year,  to  make  a  religious  visit  in  the  love  of  the  gospel,  to 
Friends  and  others  in  some  parts  of  our  own  yearly  meeting, 
and  in  the  compass  of  the  yearly  meetings  of  Philadelphia, 
Baltimore,  Ohio,  Indiana,  and  a  few  meetings  in  Virginia ;  and 
apprehending  the  time  had  come  to  move  therein,  I  spread  the 
concern  before  my  friends  at  Jericho  monthly  meeting,  held  the 
20th  of  3d  month,  1828,  and  obtained  their  unity  and  concur- 
rence therein.  This  concern,  \vith  the  certificate  from  our 
monthly  meeting,  I  laid  before  our  quarterly  meeting  held  at 
Westbury,  the  24th  of  4th  month  following  ;  and  obtained  their 
unity  and  concurrence,  with  an  endorsement  thereof  on  my 
certificate  from  the  monthly  meeting. 

I  left  home  the  28th  of  4th  month,  the  week  after  our  quar- 
terly meeting,  in  order  to  accomplish  the  service  above  alluded 
to;  and  attended  the  three  quarterly  meetings  of  Purchase, 
Nine  Partners,  and  Stanford,  as  they  came  in  their  usual  course. 
On  my  way  home,  I  attended  Oblong  monthly  meeting,  also 
four  particular  meetings,  three  of  which  were  appointed  at  my 
request.  In  all  these  meetings  the  Lord,  our  gracious  helper, 
manifested  himself  to  be  near  for  our  support,  making  way  for 
us  at  times  where  there  seemed  to  be  no  way,  to  our  humbling 
admiration.  I  was  from  home  in  the  prosecution  of  this  little 
tour  of  duty,  two  weeks  and  two  days.  After  this  I  tarried  at 
and  about  home  until  after  our  yearly  meeting. 


ELIAS  HICKg,  399 

Soon  after  this  I  again  left  home,  on  the  14th  of  6th  month, 

and  rode  to  New- York.  The  day  following  being  the  first  of 
the  week,  we  attended  the  morning  and  afternoon  meetings  of 
Friends  in  the  city,  which,  through  the  gracious  extendings  of 
heavenly  help,  proved  to  be  comfortable  edifying  seasons.  My 
esteemed  friend  Jesse  Merritt,  an  elder  of  our  monthly  meeting, 
accompanied  me  in  this  journey.  We  left  New- York  on  second 
day,  after  taking  a  sympathetic  farewell  of  our  friends  in  the 
city,  and  proceeded  on  our  journey  to  Rahway  in  New  Jersey, 
and  lodged  with  our  kind  friend  William  Shotwell,  and  the  next 
day  had  an  appointed  meeting  in  that  village.  It  was  truly  a 
comfortable  edifying  opportimity  ;  many  truths  of  the  gospel 
were  clearly  opened  to  the  audience,  humbling  and  contriting 
many  who  were  present ;  a  sense  of  which  inspired  our  minds 
with  gratitude  and  thanksgiving  to  the  blessed  Author  of  all 
our  mercies. 

The  next  day  being  the  fourth  of  the  week,  we  attended 
Friends'  monthly  meeting  held  at  Plainfield,  for  Rahway  and 
Plainfield.  The  meeting  for  worship  was  large,  many  of  the 
neighbouring  people  of  other  societies  coming  in,  to  whom  the 
gospel  was  freely  preached  in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit, 
solemnizing  the  assembly,  and  truth  was  raised  into  victory  over 
all.  My  mind  was  also  comforted  in  the  meeting  for  discipline, 
in  observing  the  harmony  and  brotherly  condescension  of  Friends, 
in  the  orderly  conducting  the  affairs  of  the  Church. 

The  next  day  we  proceeded  on  our  journey  to  Kingwood, 
and  put  up  with  our  kind  friend  Henry  Clifton.  We  had  an 
appointed  meeting  here  the  day  after  at  the  tenth  hour,  and 
although  the  number  of  Friends  was  small  that  constituted  this 
meeting,  yet  Friends  being  careful  to  give  their  neighbours  of 
other  societies  information  thereof,  we  had  a  very  ftiU  meeting; 
and  it  proved  a  very  solemn  impressive  opportunity  in  which 
truth  reigned,  comforting  and  contriting  many  minds. 

After  this  we  passed  on  to  Solebury  in  Pennsylvania,  and 
lodged  with  our  kind  friend  Watson  Fell,  who  met  us  at  King' 
wood  and  kindly  toolc  us  to  his  house.  The  next  day  we  had 
an  appointed  meeting  here  at  the  fourth  hour  in  the  afternoon. 


400 


JOURNAL  OP 


It  was  a  solemn  opportunity,  and  I  parted  with  them  under  a 
thankful  sense  of  the  unmerited  favour.  We  then  rode  home 
with  our  kind  friend  Moses  Eastburn  ;  and  the  next  day  being 
first  day,  and  the  22d  of  6th  month,  we  attended  Buckingham 
meeting  in  the  morning,  and  had  an  appointed  meeting  at 
Plumbstead  at  four  o'clock  in  the  afternoon.  After  this  we  rode 
home  with  our  worthy  friend  Israel  Lancaster,  and  on  second 
day  had  a  meeting  at  WrightstoAvn ;  on  third  day  in  the  fore- 
noon, we  attended  Newtown  meeting ;  and  at  the  fourth  hour 
in  the  afternoon  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Makefield.  These 
were  all  large  favoured  meetings,  in  which  the  gospel  was 
preached  in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  and  many  hearts 
were  humbled  and  contrited,  and  a  precious  solemnity  spread 
over  the  meetings,  comforting  and  rejoicing  the  honest-hearted, 
and  to  the  praise  of  Hun,  who  is  calling  us  to  glory  and  virtue. 

On  fourth  day,  the  25th,  we  attended  a  meeting  at  the  Falls ; 
on  fifth  day  were  at  Middletown ;  on  sixth  day  at  Byberry ;  and 
on  seventh  day  at  Abington.  These  meetings  were  all  large 
and  very  solemn,  and  the  canopy  of  love,  in  a  very  comforting 
manner,  was  felt  to  spread  over  the  assembhes ;  and  much  kind- 
ness and  friendly  regard  were  manifested  towards  us,  not  only 
by  our  friends,  but  by  the  people  in  general  of  other  societies, 
who  attended  the  meetings. 

We  attended  Horsham  meeting  in  the  morning,  on  first  day, 
the  29th,  and  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Upper  Dublin  at 
the  fourth  hour  in  the  afternoon.  They  were  very  large  ;  more 
attended  than  the  houses  could  contain.  As  the  last  meeting 
was  assembling  there  came  on  a  heavy  shower  of  rain,  accom- 
panied with  an  uncommon  time  of  lightning,  and  very  heavy 
peals  of  thunder :  many  flashes  of  the  lightning  appeared  to 
strike  down  to  the  earth  within  a  very  small  distance  of  the 
meeting-house,  which  brought  a  great  solemnity  over  the  meet- 
ing, and  I  was  thankful  in  observing  the  stillness  and  quiet 
which  prevailed  generally  among  the  people.  These  meetings 
were  very  solemn  seasons,  in  which  truth  reigned,  and  I  parted 
with  them  in  peace  of  mind,  and  the  fresh  feelings  of  gospel 
love. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


401 


Our  kind  friend  Joseph  Foulke  met  us  at  Horsham;  and  after 
the  latter  meeting  conducted  us  to  his  house,  where  we  met  a 
very  cordial  welcome,  and  were  favoured  with  the  company  and 
conversation  of  his  ancient  and  very  worthy  father  Hugh  Foulke. 
The  two  following  days  we  attended  meetings  at  North  Wales 
and  Plymouth.  These  were  large  favoured  meetings,  in  which 
many  truths  of  the  gospel  were  largely  opened  to  the  edification, 
comfort,  and  apparent  satisfaction,  of  those  large  assemblies,  and 
to  the  peace  of  my  own  mind.  It  was  the  Lord's  doing,  and 
to  him  belongs  all  the  praise,  nothing  due  to  man. 

From  thence  we  proceeded  to  Charlestown,  and  lodged  with 
our  kind  friend  James  Wood ;  and  the  next  day,  being  the 
fourth  day  of  the  week,  we  attended  their  meeting.  After  this 
we  rode  to  Pikeland,  where  we  were  very  kindly  entertained  by 
our  friends  Emmor  Kimber  and  wife,  and  had  an  appointed 
meeting  there  the  next  day.  We  tarried  here  until  the  next 
morning ;  and  then  proceeded  on  to  Uwchlan,  where  we  had  a 
meeting,  by  previous  appointment,  at  the  eleventh  hour ;  and 
although  it  was  in  the  midst  of  their  harvest,  and  the  care 
necessary  for  getting  it  in,  very  urgent,  as  many  of  their  fields 
of  grain  appeared  to  be  over-ripe,  yet  to  our  own  and  our  friends' 
admiration,  the  meetings  were  unusually  large,  frequently  many 
more  assembled  than  the  houses  could  contain.  The  people 
were  generally  very  solid  and  quiet,  and  very  attentive  to  hear 
what  was  communicated ;  and  many  minds  were  humbled  and 
contrited,  and  truth's  testimonies  exalted,  to  the  mutual  comfort 
and  encouragement  of  the  honest-hearted,  and  to  the  general 
satisfaction  of  the  assembled  multitudes ;  and  my  mind  was 
deeply  humbled  and  made  thankful  for  the  continuance  of  those 
unmerited  favours. 

On  seventh  day,  the  5th  of  7th  month,  we  attended  a 
meeting  at  Downing's  Town,  held  in  an  orchard,  under  the 
shade  of  the  apple  trees ;  which  was  a  large,  solemn,  satisfactory 
meeting.  A  division  having  taken  place  in  the  Society  of 
Friends,  and  the  meeting-house  in  this  place  being  in  possession 
of  the  party  termed  Orthodox,  they  refused  to  permit  Friends  to 
occupy  it  on  this  occasion.   There  were,  however,  more  attended 

51 


402 


JOURNAL  OF 


the  meeting,  than  could  have  got  into  the  house,  if  we  had  been 
permitted  to  use  it.  The  next  day  we  attended  Friends'  meeting 
at  East  Cain ;  and  notice  having  been  given  of  our  intention 
of  attending  it,  the  house,  although  very  large,  did  not  contain 
more  than  three  quarters  of  the  people  that  assembled.  It  was 
a  season  to  be  remembered  with  gratitude,  in  which  the  Lord's 
presence  was  felt  to  preside,  humbling  and  contriting  many 
hearts,  and  trath  was  raised  into  victory  over  all. 

On  second  day  we  attended  a  meeting,  by  appointment,  at 
Sadsbury ;  and  on  third  day  their  monthly  meeting.  On  fourth 
day  Ave  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Lampeter.  These  were 
all  favoured  opportunities,  wherein  the  Lord's  power  was  mani- 
fested for  our  help,  rejoicing  and  encouraging  the  honest-hearted, 
and  settling  and  .confirming  the  wavering,  who  were  halting 
between  two  opinions,  but  Avere  now  satisfied,  and  openly 
declared  themselves  on  the  side  of  Friends,  some  of  whom  had 
previously  gone  with  oiu"  opposers,  but  were  now  convinced  of 
the  impropriety  of  then*  condut\  and  cheerfully  united  with 
Friends. 

After  the  latter  meeting,  we  dined  with  our  friend  Thomas 
Peart.  We  then  took  leave  of  our  fiiends  in  near  unity,  and 
proceeded  on  our  journey  to  Columbia,  and  lodged  with  our  kind 
friend  William  Wright,  who,  with  his  worthy  and  affectionate 
wife,  entertained  us  with  great  hospitality.  We  had  an  appointed 
meeting  at  this  place  the  next  day.  The  two  following  days 
we  attended  meetings  at  Little  York  and  Newbury.  All  of 
these  were  favoured  opportunities,  in  which  truth  was  raised 
into  dominion,  and  many  hearts  were  humbled  and  contrited, 
and  the  faithful  comforted  and  made  to  rejoice  together  in  the 
unity  of  the  one  spirit,  Christ,  the  only  sure  foundation,  on  which 
the  true  Church  has  been  buUt  in  all  the  varied  ages  of  mankind, 
from  the  beginning  down  to  the  present  time ;  and  on  which  all 
future  generations  must  build,  or  their  building  must  and  will 
fall. 

On  first  day,  the  13th  of  7th  month,  we  attended  Friends' 
meeting  at  Warrington,  and  the  two  following  days  the  meet- 
ings of  Huntington  and  Monallin.    These  were  all  favoured 


ET.iAs  nicies. 


403 


opportunities,  in  which  abihty  was  vouchsafed,  by  the  blessed 
Author  of  all  our  sure  mercies,  to  preach  the  gospel  to  the  people 
in  the  simplicity,  plainness,  and  demonstration  of  the  spirit, 
which  brought  a  precious  solemnity  over  the  assemblies ;  and  I 
parted  with  them  with  the  satisfactory  evidence  of  having  faith- 
fully discharged  myself  among  them,  feeling  that  true  peace  of 
mind,  which  the  world,  with  all  its  fading  enjoyments,  cannot 
give  nor  take  away.  The  next  day,  the  I6th,  we  proceeded  on 
our  journey  through  the  mountains  to  Redstone,  about  one 
hundred  and  sixty-one  miles ;  and  arrived  there  on  first  day, 
the  20th,  about  eight  o'clock  in  the  morning,  at  the  house  of 
our  kind  friend  Jesse  Townsend.  We  attended  their  meeting 
at  the  eleventh  hour,  which  was  large  and  favoured.  We 
lodged  with  our  aforesaid  friend,  during  the  time  we  spent  in 
this  place. 

On  second  day  we  rested.  On  third  and  fourth  days  we 
attended  meetings  at  Providence  and  Centre.  On  fifth  day  we 
attended  Westland  monthly  meeting ;  and  the  neighbourhood 
being  informed  of  our  coming,  there  were  more  people  assembled 
than  the  house  could  contain  ;  and  I  had  a  full  opportunity  to 
discharge  myself  among  them  in  a  large  eflfective  testimony, 
which  brought  a  precious  solemnity  over  the  meeting,  and 
many  minds  were  humbled  and  contrited. 

A  Friend  •  fi-om  abroad  attended  this  meeting,  and  after  I  sat 
down  he  rose  and  made  opposition,  which  greatly  disturbed  the 
meeting. 

On  sixth  day  we  attended  an  appointed  meeting  at  Pike 
Run.  It  was  held  in  the  side  of  a  wood,  the  meeting-house 
having  been  burnt.  There  being  but  few  Friends  in  this  place, 
they  met  in  a  small  private  room  :  this  induced  them  to  make 
seats  out  of  doors,  as  the  house  would  not  have  held  half  the 
people  that  met.  It  was  an  unusually  favoured  season.  In  the 
silent  part  of  the  meeting,  the  divine  presence  was  felt  to  spread 
over  the  assembly,  producing  such  a  sweet  and  precious  solem- 
nity, as  I  scarcely  ever  before  witnessed  in  the  same  fullness, 
and  which  continued  through  the  course  of  my  communication. 
Surely  it  was  the  Lord's  doing,  and  it  was  marvellous  in  our  eyes. 


404 


JOURNAL  OF 


After  this  meeting  we  dined  Avith  our  kind  friend  John  Grave, 
and  then  proceeded  on  our  way  about  three  miles  towards 
Brownsville,  and  lodged  with  our  friend  Isaac  Walker.  On 
seventh  day  night  we  lodged  at  the  house  of  our  friend  Solomon 
Philips,  near  Brownsville ;  and  the  next  morning  crossed  the 
river  Monongahela  into  the  town.  Here  we  put  up  again  wath 
our  kind  friends  Jesse  and  Edith  Townsend,  where  we  had  the 
company  of  many  Friends,  and  many  of  the  inhabitants  of  the 
town  not  members  of  our  society,  also  came  in  to  see  us ;  as  the 
unfounded  reports  of  those  who  style  themselves  Orthodox, 
having  been  generally  spread  over  the  country,  it  created  such 
a  great  excitement  in  the  minds  of  the  people  at  large,  that  multi- 
tudes flocked  to  the  meetings  where  we  were,  to  hear  for  them- 
selves ;  and  many  came  to  see  us,  and  acknowledged  their 
satisfaction. 

At  this  place  we  again  fell  in  with  the  Friend  from  abroad, 
who  attended  the  meeting  with  us ;  he  rose  in  the  early  part 
of  the  meeting,  and  continued  his  communication  so  long,  that 
a  number  left  the  meeting,  by  which  it  became  very  much  un- 
settled :  however,  when  he  sat  down  I  felt  an  opening  to  stand 
up;  and  the  people  returned  and  crowded  into  the  house,  and 
those  that  could  not  get  in  stood  about  the  doors  and  windows, 
and  a  precious  solemnity  soon  spread  over  the  meeting,  which 
has  been  the  case  in  every  meeting,  where  our  opposers  did  not 
make  disturbance  by  their  disorderly  conduct.  The  meeting 
closed  in  a  quiet  and  orderly  manner,  and  I  was  very  thankful 
for  the  favour. 

On  second  day  we  rested  and  wrote  to  our  friends.  On  third 
day  we  attended  their  preparative  meeting  for  Ministers  and 
Elders,  and  on  fourth  day  their  monthly  meeting.  Here  the 
Friend  who  had  before  made  opposition  opposed  me  publicly  and 
personally  in  the  meeting  for  worship  ;  but  I  nevertheless  had  a 
favoured  opportunity,  to  the  general  satisfaction  of  the  meeting, 
and  to  the  peace  of  my  own  mind. 

We  attended  Westland  meeting  again  on  fifth  day  as  it  came 
in  course.  It  was  pretty  large,  many  of  the  neighboviring  inhabit- 
ants coming  in.    We  had  a  very  favoured  meeting ;  Friends 


BLIAS  HICKS. 


405 


were  comforted  together,  and  the  people  went  away  satisfied; 
and  my  mind  was  fully  relieved,  and  inspired  with  thankfulness 
and  gratitude. 

On  sixth  day  we  attended  the  quarterly  meeting  of  Ministers 
and  Elders  held  at  Westland,  where  we  met  with  but  little  oppo- 
sition ;  and  the  next  day  we  attended  the  quarterly  meeting  of 
discipline.  I  had  good  service  in  tire  meeting  for  worship,  which 
preceded  that  for  discipline.  It  was  very  large,  a  great  num- 
ber of  those  not  in  membership  with  Friends  came  in,  and 
behaved  very  orderly.  Here  we  met  with  some  opposition, 
more  particularly  in  the  meeting  for  discipline  from  the  Friend 
above  mentioned.  And  Friends  were  so  disturbed  with  the 
conduct  of  this  Friend  and  his  companion,  that  they  proposed 
that  the  Elders  and  Overseers  should  take  an  opportunity  with 
them,  and  see  if  they  could  not  put  a  stop  to  such  disorderly 
conduct ;  accordingly  they  had  an  interview  with  them,  in 
which  Friends  relieved  their  minds  pretty  fully ;  but  the  few 
termed  Orthodox,  used  their  influence  in  their  favour,  which 
greatly  prevented  their  being  benefited  by  the  opportunity. 

Public  notice  was  given  at  the  close  of  the  meeting  on  seventh 
day,  Uiat  my  companion  and  myself  intended  to  be  at  their 
meeting  the  next  day.  A  great  number  more  assembled  than 
the  house  could  contain ;  and  although  the  Friend  above  alluded 
to,  had  so  fully  discovered  that  not  only  Friends,  but  the  people 
generally,  had  no  unity  with  him,  yet  soon  after  the  meeting 
was  settled,  he  rose  and  stood  a  considerable  time.  After  he 
sat  down,  I  was  favoured  to  clear  myself  among  them  in  a  large 
impressive  testimony,  that  soon  brought  a  precious  solemnity 
over  the  meeting;  and  many  hearts  were  broken  and  contri- 
ted,  and  I  took  an  affectionate  farewell  of  the  Jissembly  in  the 
fresh  feelings  of  gospel  love.  As  I  was  about  to  close  the  meet- 
ing, the  same  individual  again  rose,  and  began  to  oppose  what 
had  been  said  by  me ;  this  so  offended  the  people,  Fi  iends  and 
others,  that  they  rose  up  and  went  out  in  great  numbers,  he  at 
the  same  time  begging  them  to  stay;  but  they  refused  and 
continued  going  out  until  he  was  discouraged  and  sat  down. 


406 


JOURNAL  OP 


Soon  after  I  closed  the  meeting,  feeling  very  sorry  for  the  people 
to  see  them  so  imposed  upon. 

After  this  meeting  we  proceeded  that  afternoon  about  seven 
miles,  on  our  way  to  Pittsburg.  On  second  day  we  rode  to 
Pittsburg,  and  lodged  with  Robert  Townsend  ;  who,  although 
not  in  membership  with  Friends,  entertained  us  with  much 
kindness  and  hospitality.  The  day  following  at  evening,  we 
had  a  large  satisfactory  meeting  in  their  court-house,  Friends 
having  no  meeting  in  that  town.  On  fourth  day  we  proceeded 
on  our  journey,  crossing  the  Alleghany  river  at  Pittsburg,  and 
arrived  that  evening  at  a  village,  at  the  great  falls  of  the  river 
Beaver.  The  next  day  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  there, 
held  in  a  field  under  some  trees,  which  made  a  comfortable 
shade,  the  weather  being  very  warm,  and  Friends  meeting- 
house much  too  small  to  contain  the  people  who  assembled.  It 
was  a  very  solemn  opportunity,  in  which  truth  was  raised  into 
victory  over  all,  and  the  people  appeared  thankful  for  the  favour ; 
and  I  witnessed  the  consoling  evidence  of  true  peace,  in  faith- 
fully discharging  my  duty  among  them. 

After  this  favoured  meeting,  we  went  forward  that  afternoon 
towards  Salem,  in  order  to  attend  the  quarterly  meeting  at  that 
place,  which  opened  the  next  day  at  the  eleventh  hour,  with  a 
meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders.  Friends  met  in  a  school-house 
which  one  of  them  had  built  on  his  own  premises,  with  which, 
and  a  temporary  shed  that  Friends  put  up  adjoining  to  it,  the 
meeting  was  pretty  w^ell  accommodated.  They  conducted  the 
business  of  the  quarterly  meeting  in  much  unity  and  concord, 
and  the  Lord's  presence  was  evidently  felt  to  cover  the  assembly. 
The  next  day  being  first  day,  and  as  notice  was  spread  of  our 
being  there,  the  meeting  was  very  large.  It  was  judged  by 
Friends  that  upwards  of  two  thousand  people  attended.  It  was 
a  highly  favoured  season,  in  which  I  was  enabled  by  Him,  who 
when  he  opens  none  can  shut,  and  when  he  shuts  none  can 
open,  to  declare  the  truth  to  the  people  in  the  demonstration  of 
the  spirit,  and  with  a  power  attending  which  brought  a  precious 
solemnity  over  the  meeting,  and  many  hearts  were  humbled 
and  contrited. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


407 


The  next  day  we  had  a  meeting  by  appointment  at  Fairfield. 
This  was  also  a  very  large  meeting,  many  more  assembled  than 
the  house  could  contain.  I  had  a  favoured  time  among  tliem, 
and  was  made  thankful  for  the  opportunity,  and  had  cause  to 
believe  my  labour  was  not  in  vain. 

The  day  following  we  attended  New  Garden  quarterly  meet- 
ijig.  Here  Friends  had  a  trying  time,  as  those  called  Orthodox, 
ahhough  they  were  but  a  small  part  of  the  meeting,  had  under- 
taken to  disown  a  number  of  Friends ;  but  Friends  did  not 
acknowledge  their  authority,  nor  consider  their  disownments  of 
any  effect,  and  they  all  came  together  as  usual  in  the  quarterly 
meeting.  The  Orthodox  strove  hard  to  get  Friends  to  withdraw, 
but  they  refused,  and  proceeded  with  the  business  of  the  meeting, 
which  those  called  Orthodox  interrupted  for  a  time ;  but  finding 
that  Friends  would  not  give  way,  they  finally  left  the  meeting, 
and  retired  to  a  school-house,  and  Friends  had  a  comfortable 
season  together,  and  conducted  their  business  in  much  harmony 
and  condescension,  and  were  evidently  owned  by  the  Head  of  the 
Church. 

I  appointed  a  meeting  oh  fourth  day  for  the  pubhc  at  large. 
Friends,  and  others.  A  large  number  assembled ;  many  more 
than  the  house  could  contain.  We  had  a  precious  meeting:  the 
Lord's  power  prevailed  in  aa  eminent  manner.  It  was  a  season 
thankfully  to  be  remembered,  and  was  truly  an  humbling  time 
among  the  people. 

After  this  we  proceeded  to  New  Lisbon,  to  attend  a  meeting 
there  the  next  day,  which  we  had  previously  appointed.  It  was 
held  out  of  doors,  there  being  no  house  in  the  town  sufficient  to 
hold  the  people  that  Friends  apprehended  would  assemble.  Being 
aware  of  this,  they  erected  a  booth  or  shed,  by  setting  up  posts, 
on  which  they  laid  long  poles,  and  covered  them  with  branches 
of  trees  to  make  a  shade,  as  the  weather  was  very  warm.  Under 
this  we  had  a  very  large  favoured  meeting,  to  the  general  satis- 
faction of  the  people,  and  peace  of  my  own  mind. 

The  two  following  days  we  attended  meetings,  by  appointment, 
at  Springfield  and  Goshen.  Those  called  Orthodox  had  posses- 
sion of  the  meeting-houses  at  those  places,  and  refused  to  admit 


408 


JOURNAL  OP 


US ;  but  although  they  could  shut  us  out  of  the  meeting-hooseS; 
yet  they  could  not  shut  us  out  from  the  divine  presence,  for 
this  was  felt  eminently  to  preside  in  both  these  highly  favoured 
meetings. 

The  next  day,  being  first  day  and  17th  of  8th  month,  we 
attended  Marlborough  meeting.  It  was  very  large,  notice 
having  been  previously  given  of  our  intention  to  be  there,  so  that 
hundreds  assembled  who  could  not  get  into  the  house.  I  had 
an  open  opportunity  among  them,  to  proclaim  the  everlasting 
gospel  in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  to  the  comfort  and  sati^- 
faction  of  this  large  assembly,  except  those  called  Orthodox,  who, 
when  I  sat  down,  made  great  opposition,  which  greatly  offended 
the  people. 

We  then  proceeded  to  Canton,  a  pretty  large  country  town, 
and  attended  a  meeting  at  the  fourth  hour  in  the  afternoon,  and 
notice  was  publicly  given  that  we  were  to  be  (here.  As  there 
were  no  members  of  our  society  in  the  town,  the  meeting  was 
held  in  their  court-house.  Many  of  the  respectable  inhabitants 
attended,  and  information  being  given  to  Friends  of  Kendal,  a 
small  meeting  about  seven  miles  distant,  most  of  them  attended, 
and  many  other  inhabitants  of  that  place  came  also  to  the 
meeting.  We  had  a  favoured  opportunity  with  them,  and  left 
them  with  peace. 

After  this  we  returned  to  New  Garden,  and  put  up  with  our 
kind  friend  Nathan  Galbreath.  The  next  day  being  the  fourth 
of  the  week,  we  rode  to  Salem,  and  attended  Friends'  monthly 
meeting,  in  which  1  was  led  to  stir  up  Friends  to  faithfulness,  in 
support  of  our  rehgious  testimonies,  as  the  eyes  of  the  people  were 
upon  us,  watching  our  movements  in  this  time  of  trial.  Friends 
separating  from  each  other,  and  setting  up  separate  meetings, 
which  caused  a  great  breach  of  unity  and  confusion  in  most  of 
our  meetings,  which  a  few  years  previous  thereto  had  been  united 
together  in  the  bonds  of  Christian  fellowship ;  but  a  few  indi- 
viduals who  had  gained  some  influence  in  society,  letting  in  the 
spirit  of  jealousy,  began  to  accuse  some  of  their  friends  of  pro- 
mulgating unsound  doctrines,  without  any  just  cause  for  so  doing, 
by  which  they  greatly  disturbed  the  peace  and  quiet  of  society  j 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


409 


and  being  encouraged  therein  by  several  Friends  from  England, 
who  as  ministers,  had  obtained  Hberty  from  their  friends  at  home, 
to  come  over  on  a  visit  to  Friends  in  this  country,  they  blew  up 
the  fire  of  (Uscord,  until  they  brought  about  a  division  in  our 
once  peaceful  society;  a  small  minority  of  which,  iu  many 
placesf  separated  themselves  from  the  body,  and  set  up  separate 
meetings,  assuming  the  names  of  the  yearly,  quarterly,  and 
monthly  meetings  ;  and  these,  in  their  presumption,  have  taken 
upon  them  to  deal  with  and  disown  the  great  body  of  the 
society. 

The  next  day  we  returned  to  New  Garden  and  attended 
Friends'  monthly  meeting  there  ;  and  the  neighbouring  inhabit- 
ants being  apprized  of  our  return,  a  great  number  came  in,  and 
greatly  enlarged  the  meeting ;  and  He  that  openeth,  and  none 
can  shut,  graciously  condescended  to  open  my  mouth  among 
them,  in  a  large  effective  testimony  to  the  truths  of  the  gospel ; 
and  many  hearts  were  humbled  and  contrited.  It  appeared  as  a 
renewed  visitation  of  the  heavenly  Father's  love  to  Friends  and 
others ;  and  it  was  a  season  gratefully  to  be  remembered  by  all 
present ;  for  surely  it  was  the  Lord's  doing,  and  marvellous  in 
our  eyes. 

The  day  following  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Sandy 
Spring,  at  the  fourth  hour  in  the  afternoon.  The  meeting 
was  very  large,  and  favoufed  with  the  overshadowing  wing 
of  divine  kindness ;  and  a  precious  solemnity  pervaded  the 
assembly,  and  my  mind  was  opened  to  declare  the  truth  to 
them,  to  the  apparent  satisfaction  and  comfort  of  the  assembled 
multitude ;  and  I  took  leave  of  them  with  thankfulness  and 
peace  of  mind.  We  remained  here  imtil  the  next  morning, 
and  then  proceeded  on  our  journey  to  Richmond,  about  thirty- 
five  miles,  where  we  took  up  our  lodging  at  an  inn.  The  next 
day  being  first  day,  and  24th  of  8th  month,  we  had  an  appointed 
meeting  in  the  town.  The  inhabitants  were  mostly  Presby- 
terians and  Methodists.  It  was  held  in  their  school-house,  a 
large  convenient  room.  The  people  came  in  freely,  and  behaved 
with  great  propriety  and  order,  and  appeared  to  go  away  satis- 

52 


410 


JOURNAL  OP 


fied ;  and  I  felt  true  peace  in  having  faithfully,  in  gospel  love, 
discharged  myself  among  them. 

After  this  we  proceeded  about  five  miles  on  our  way  to  Smith- 
field,  and  the  next  morning  rode  to  that  place  ;  but  being  some- 
what unwell,  we  rested  there  through  the  day,  and  the  next 
day  had  an  appointed  meeting  there,  at  the  fourth  hour*in  the 
afternoon.  Those  called  Orthodox,  shut  the  meeting-house 
against  us ;  but  Friends  provided  seats  under  the  shade  of 
trees,  in  an  adjacent  wood,  where  we  had  a  very  solemn, 
favoured  meeting,  in  which  the  Lord's  power  prevailed  over  all 
in  an  eminent  degree,  and  broke  down  all  opposition,  and  many 
hearts  were  broken  and  contrited ;  and  we  parted  with  them 
under  a  grateful  sense  of  the  Lord's  mercy  for  the  unmerited 
favour. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 

Continuation  of  his  visit  to  Friends  in  some  parts  of  Ohio,  Indiana,  Maryland, 
Pennsylvania  and  New  Jersey  in  1838. — Decease  of  his  wife  in  1829. — Visit 
to  Friends  in  the  yearly  meeting  of  New- York  in  1829. — Letter  to  Hugh  Judge 
in  1830. — His  decease  in  1830. — Memorial  of  tlie  monthly  meeting  of  Jericho 
in  1830. 

On  the  27th  of  8th  month,  1828,  we  proceeded  on  our  jour- 
ney to  Mount  Pleasant,  and  attended  on  that  day,  their  meeting 
in  the  middle  of  the  week ;  it  was  large,  by  the  attendance  of 
many  of  the  inhabitants  who  were  not  members  of  our  society, 
and  was,  in  the  forepart,  a  solemn,  quiet  meeting ;  but  the  latter 
part  of  it  was  disturbed  and  its  usefulness  marred,  by  a  long, 
tedious  communication  from  a  minister  among  those  called  Or- 
thodox, who,  after  I  sat  down,  publicly  opposed  and  endeavoured 
to  lay  waste  what  I  had  said. 

The  next  day  we  attended  Short  Creek  meeting.  Here  also 
the  meeting  in  the  forepart,  was  truly  a  solemn  season,  in  which 
I  was  favoured  to  open  and  declare  many  important  truths  of 
the  gospel  to  the  people,  which  brought  a  precious  solemnity 
over  the  assembly,  and  many  minds  were  contrited ;  but  an 
opposition  from  the  same  person  who  caused  the  disturbance  the 
day  before,  again  took  place,  much  to  the  dissatisfaction  of  the 
principal  part  of  those  assembled. 

The  next  day  being  the  sixth  of  the  week,  we  attended  an 
appointed  meeting  at  Harrisville.  Here  we  met  with  no  inter- 
ruption. This  was  a  large  crowded  meeting,  and  very  solemn 
and  quiet.  I  had  an  open  time  among  the  people  to  declare 
many  things,  both  old  and  new ;  setting  forth  the  great  declen- 
sion of  the  professed  Christian  Churches,  from  the  simplicity 
and  integrity  of  the  primitive  disciples ;  and  showing  that  it  was 


412 


JOURNAL  OF 


all  brought  about  by  a  departure  from  the  only  sure  foundation 
of  true  and  real  Christianity,  the  liglit  ^cithin,  or  spirit  of 
truth,  the  immediate  revelation  of  the  spirit  of  God,  in  the 
immortal  souls  of  men  and  women  ;  the  only  and -alone  true 
teacher  of  the  things  of  God  under  the  gospel.  And  as  a  depart- 
ure from  this  only  sure  guide,  and  turning  back  to  the  letter 
and  external  evidence,  and  building  up,  from  these  outward 
materials,  many  diverse  systems  of  religion,  in  their  own  crea- 
turely  wisdom,  brought  confusion  and  anarchy  into  the  Church, 
which  enveloped  it  in  a  state  of  midnight  darkness  and  death, 
as  to  the  life  and  spirit  of  real  Christianity ;  by  which  the  worst  of 
persecution,  and  the  most  cmel  and  sanguinary  wars  were  intro- 
,  duced  among  Clwistians  :  so  nothing  short  of  a  full  and  entire 
return  to  this  only  sure  foundation  and  first  principle,  and  placing 
an  entire  dependance  thereon  for  our  salvation,  can  ever  produce 
a  real  restoration  from  the  apostate  state  in  which  Christendom 
is  at  present  involved.  I  was  also  led  to  lay  before  the  people 
the  inconsistency  and  hurtful  tendency  of  Bible  and  Missionary 
societies ;  as  believing  them  all  to  be  set  up  and  associated 
together  in  the  will  and  wisdom  of  man,  which  never  did,  nor 
ever  can,  produce  the  righteousness  of  God,  but  tend  to  lead  the 
mind  down  to  a  state  of  darkness  and  death,  as  a  dependance 
on  the  letter  and  external  evidence  ever  has,  and  ever  will  kill, 
as  to  the  real  spiritual  life,  agreeably  to  Paul's  doctrine  :  "  The 
letter  killeth,  but  the  spirit  giveth  life."  f 

The  next  day  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Westgrove. 
The  day  following  being  the  first  of  the  week,  and  31st  of  8th 
month,  Ave  attended  Concord  meeting ;  and  the  three  following 
days  attended  meetings  at  St.  Clairsville,  Plainfield,  and 
Wrightstown.  These  were  all  large  satisfactorj^  meetings,  in 
which  the  gospel  was  preached  to  the  people,  and  by  the  power 
attending,  many  hearts  were  broken  and  contrited ;  and  a  pre- 
cious sense  of  the  divine  presence  was  felt  to  preside,  to  the  com- 
fort and  encouragement  of  the  honest-hearted ;  a  sense  of  which 
inspired  my  mind  with  thanksgiving  and  gratitude,  to  the  blessed 
Author  of  all  our  sure  mercies. 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


413 


On  fifth  day,  the  4th  of  9th  month,  we  had  an  appointed 
meeting  at  a  place  called  Stillwater.  It  was  a  very  large  com- 
fortable meeting,  and  I  had  a  ftill  opportunity  in  an  effective 
testimony,  to  ease  my  exercised  mind  among  them,  to  the  com- 
fort and  apparent  satisfaction  of  the  people,  both  Friends  and 
others.  The  next  day  we  rode  back  to  Mount  Pleasant,  and 
the  day  following  being  the  seventh  day  of  the  week,  and  6th 
of  9th  month,  the  yearly  meeting  opened  with  a  meeting  of 
Ministers  and  Elders.  When  the  time  came  for  meeting.  Friends 
gathered  to  the  gate  which  led  into  the  yard  where  the  meeting- 
house stood,  and  foimd  it  guarded  by  a  number  of  men  of  the 
opposing  pcuty,  who  refused  to  let  us  in ;  and  Friends  had  to 
hold  their  meeting  in  the  open  air,  outside  of  the  yard  ;  but  after 
the  first  sitting,  adjoiu'ned  to  a  school-house  near  by,  and  after- 
wards held  the  remaining  sittings  in  a  private  room,  in  Israel 
French's  house. 

The  next  day  and  first  of  the  week,  we  attended  Mount 
Pleasant  meeting  in  the  morning,  and  that  held  at  Short  Creek 
in  the  afternoon.  In  the  morning  meeting  Elisha  Bates  and 
Anna  Braithwaite  made  great  opposition,  endeavouring  by  long 
and  tedious  communications  to  lay  waste  what  I  had  previously 
communicated,  which  very  much  disturbed  many  present.  But 
the  afternoon  meeting  was  not  interrupted,  as  none  of  those 
opposers  attended. 

On  second  day  morning,  the  yearly  meeting  for  disciphne 
opened  at  the  tenth  hour.  Not  being  present  at  this  sitting,  I 
was  informed  that  great  confusion  and  disorder  took  place  ;  both 
Friends  and  those  called  Orthodox  wished  to  retain  possession 
of  the  meeting-house,  and  both  parties  went  on  with  their  busi- 
ness with  separate  clerks,  for  some  httle  time,  when  the  Ortho- 
dox adjourned  their  meeting  to  ten  o'clock  the  next  day,  and 
left  the  house  in  the  possession  of  Friends,  who  then  proceeded 
((uietly  on  with  tlie  business  of  the  meeting  until  some  time  in 
the  afternoon,  and  then  adjourned  to  nine  o'clock  the  next  day ; 
when  they  again  met,  and  near  the  tenth  hour  a  deputation 
from  our  opposing  Friends  came  and  demanded  the  use  of  the 
house,  in  the  name  of  the  yearly  meeting  of  Ohio.  Friends 


414 


JOURNAL  OF 


informed  them  that  the  yearly  meeting  was  now  sitting,  and 
the  doors  were  open,  and  they  might  come  in  ;  and  after  some 
further  requisition  for  Friends  to  a\  ithdraw,  and  give  them  the 
entire  use  of  the  house,  which  Friends  could  not  think  right  to  do, 
as  being  entirely  unreasonable,  they  then  went  away  and  did  not 
give  Friends  any  more  interruption  in  that  way.  But  they  had 
recourse  to  the  law  and  prosecuted  a  number  of  Friends,  some 
in  an  action  for  a  pretended  trespass,  for  going  into  their  own 
meeting-house,  and  some  as  rioters ;  and  compelled  them  to 
leave  their  meeting  and  go  before  the  magistrates,  to  answer  for 
crimes  they,  without  a  just  cause,  had  accused  them  of  having 
committed.  And  a  considerable  number,  it  was  said  about 
thirty  of  their  own  principal  members,  such  as  Ministers  and 
Elders,  and  other  active  members,  left  the  sittings  of  their-  yearly 
meeting,  and  went  to  a  town  twenty  miles  distant,  where  they 
had  compelled  a  number  of  Friends  to  attend,  to  be  tried  by  the 
court  then  sitting,  and  were  two  days  absent  from  the  sittings 
of  their  meeting.  After  this  they  interrupted  Friends  no  fur- 
ther, and  Friends  quietly  proceeded  with  their  business,  and 
closed  on  sixth  day. 

We  proceeded  on  our  journey  next  day  to  Flushing,  and  the 
day  after  being  the  first  of  the  week,  we  attended  Friends' 
meeting  there ;  and  as  notice  had  been  given  of  our  intention 
to  be  there,  the  meeting  was  very  large,  more  than  the  house 
could  contain.  At  this  meeting  those  styled  Orthodox  made 
great  opposition  ;  for  as  soon  as  I  came  near  the  meeting-house 
several  of  them  met  me,  and  desired  I  woidd  not  interrupt  the 
meeting:  and  soon  after  the  meeting  was  gathered,  before  it 
became  fully  settled,  Charles  Osborn,  an  Orthodox  minister, 
kneeled  in  supplication  and  continued  on  his  knees,  I  beUeve, 
more  than  an  hour.  It  was  ti'uly  a  distressing  scene,  and  it 
greatly  disturbed  the  meeting  ;  and  very  soon  after  he  took  his 
seat,  he  rose  and  began  to  preach,  and  continued  for  more  than 
an  hour.  However,  when  he  sat  down,  although  the  meeting  was 
much  wearied  with  his  long  and  tedious  communications,  I  felt 
the  necessity  of  standing  up  and  addressing  the  people,  which 
brought  a  precious  solemnity  over  the  meeting  ;  but  as  soon  as 


ELIAS  HlCKiJ. 


I  sat  down,  he  rose  again  to  contradict,  and  tried  to  lay  waste 
my  communication,  by  asserting  that  1  had  not  the  unity  of  my 
friends  at  home ;  which  being  untrue,  I  therefore  informed  the 
meeting  that  I  had  certificates  with  me  to  prove  the  incorrect- 
ness of  his  assertions,  which  I  then  produced,  but  he  and  his 
party  would  not  stay  to  hear  them,  but  in  a  disorderly  manner 
arose  and  left  the  meeting  ;  but  the  people  generally  stayed  and 
heard  them  read,  to  their  general  satisfaction.  ^ 

The  next  day  we  went  to  Cambridge,  about  thirty-seven 
miles  ;  and  the  day  following  rode  to  Zanesville,  twenty-four 
miles,  and  had  an  appointed  meeting  there  in  the  evening,  held 
in  their  court-house,  a  large  room,  but  not  sufficient  to  contain 
all  the  people  who  assembled.  It  was  a  very  solemn  instructive 
opportunity,  and  I  parted  with  them  under  a  thankful  sense  of 
the  favour,  and  with  peace  of  mind.  The  two  following  days 
we  rode  to  Wilmington,  and  put  up  with  our  friend  Warren 
Sabin,  where  we  lodged  the  two  next  nights. 

On  seventh  day  the  20th  of  9th  month,  we  rode  to  Centre, 
and  attended  Friends'  monthly  meeting,  composed  of  the  pre- 
parative meetings  of  Centre  and  Wilmington.  It  was  the  first 
monthly  meeting  they  had  held  since  the  separation  ;  and  notice 
being  given  of  om'  attendance,  the  meeting  for  worship  was 
very  large,  more  than  the  house  could  contain ;  and  the  Lord, 
our  never-faihng  helper  manifested  his  presence,  solemnizing 
the  assembly  and  opening  the  minds  of  the  people  to  receive  the 
word  preached ;  breaking  down  all  opposition,  and  humbling 
t,nd  contriting  the  assembly  in  a  very  general  manner  ;  and  we 
parted  from  each  other  with  grateful  hearts,  from  an  humbUng 
sense  of  the  unmerited  favour. 

We  returned  that  evening  to  Wilmington,  and  the  next  day 
attended  Friends'  meeting  in  that  town  ;  and  as  theh'  meeting- 
house was  small,  Friends  procmed  the  court-house  in  that  place 
to  hold  the  meeting  in.  The  meeting  was  very  large,  and  we 
had  a  very  favoured  opportunity  to  declare  the  tmth  among 
them,  to  their  general  satisfaction  ;  and  the  honest-hearted  were 
comforted  and  edified,  and  Friends  were  made  to  rejoice  for  the 
unmerited  favour.    At  the  fourth  hour  in  the  afternoon,  we  had 


416 


JOURNAL  OF 


an  appointed  meeting  at  a  place  called  Lital's  Creek,  a  shoi  t  dis- 
tance from  Wilmington.  Here  we  had  a  favoured  opportunity 
with  the  people,  greatly  to  their  satisfaction. 

The  next  day  being  the  second  of  the  week,  and  22d  of  the 
month,  we  proceeded  on  to  Springfield.  Here  those  called 
Orthodox  shut  the  meeting-house  and  set  guards  at  the  doors 
to  keep  us  out,  and  we  held  our  meeting  under  some  trees  near 
by.  It  was  a  precious  season,  wherein  the  Lord's  power  and 
fove  were  exalted  over  all  opposition,  and  many  minds  were 
humbled  and  contrited  ;  and  thanksgiving  and  praise  were 
ascribed  to  His  great  and  adorable  name,  who  is  over  aU,  blessed 
for  ever. 

We  had  a  favoured  meeting  the  day  after,  at  a  place  called 
the  Grove.  Friends'  meeting-house  there  being  small,  we  had 
to  hold  the  meeting  out  of  doors  to  accommodate  the  people.  It 
was  a  very  satisfactory  opportunity.  The  following  day  we  had 
an  appointed  meeting  at  Lebanon,  a  pretty  large  country  town, 
where  there  were  no  members  of  our  society,  but  many  sober 
people.  It  was  held  in  the  court-house,  but  it  was  not  suffi- 
cient to  contain  the  people  ;  about  one  third  of  those  who  assem- 
bled had  to  stand  out  of  doors.  It  was  an  instructive  opportu- 
nity ;  many  gospel  truths  were  opened  to  the  people,  and  they 
appeared  to  go  away  well  satisfied ;  and  I  parted  from  them 
with  true  peace  of  mind. 

On  seventh  day,  the  27tli  of  the  month,  we  attended  the 
opening  of  Indiana  yearly  meeting,  with  the  first  sitting  of  the 
meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders  ;  and  although  small,  it  was 
a  favoured  encouraging  opportunity  to  the  few  who  assembled. 
The  next  day,  being  first  day,  a  large  concourse  assembled  with 
Friends.  A  great  number  had  to  stand  without,  although  the 
house  was  very  large.  And  he  that  openeth  and  none  can  shut, 
and  when  heshutteth  none  can  open,  opened  my  mouth  among 
them  in  a  large  effective  testimony  to  the  truths  of  the  gospel ; 
in  which,  through  adorable  condescension,  I  was  enabled  to 
bring  forth,  out  of  the  Lord's  treasury,  things  new  and  old  ;  and 
truth  was  raised  into  dominion  over  all,  to  the  comfort  and 
rejoicing  of  the  honest-hearted,  and  to  the  apparent  satisfaction 


ELtAS  HICKS. 


417 


and  edification  of  the  people  in  general.  Surely  it  was  the 
Lord's  doing,  and  it  was  marvellous  in  our  eyes.  The  next  day 
the  meeting  for  discipline  opened,  and  continued  by  adjourn- 
ments until  sixth  day  evening ;  and  Friends  were  favoured, 
through  the  several  sittings,  to  conduct  the  business  in  much 
harmony  and  brotherly  condescension. 

The  day  after,  we  proceeded  on  our  journey  towards  Rich- 
mond, in  Indiana ;  attending  meetings  on  our  way,  at  Spring- 
borough,  Elk,  Westfield,  and  Eaton.  All  these  were  seasons 
of  favour,  the  Lord  graciously  manifesting  his  presence  for  our 
help.  Blessed  be  his  great  and  excellent  name,  for  his  mercy 
endureth  for  ever. 

From  Eaton  we  rode  home  with  our  kind  friends  John  and 
Elizabeth  Barnes,  and  lodged.  The  next  day,  being  the  fourth 
of  the  week,  and  8th  of  10th  month,  we  rode  to  Richmond, 
where  those  called  Orthodox  were  holding  their  yearly  meeting  ; 
and  as  this  day  was  the  time  for  holding  a  meeting  for  worship, 
notice  was  given  of  our  intention  of  being  there.  It  was  very 
large,  and  proved,  through  adorable  condescension,  a  solemn 
heart-tendering  season,  in  which  truth  reigned  over  all. 

The  three  following  days  we  attended  meetings  by  our  ap- 
pointment, at  Centreville,  West  Union  and  Milford.  After  this 
we  returned  again  to  Richmond,  in  order,  agreeably  to  appoint- 
ment, to  attend  their  first  day  meeting.  It  was  large  Uke  the 
former ;  a  multitude  of  people  assembled ;  and  was  a  precious 
meeting,  in  which  truth  was  triumphant,  and  ran  as  oil  over 
the  assembly,  breaking  down  all  opposition,  and  melting  a 
great  portion  of  the  assembly  into  tears  of  contrition.  Surely 
it  was  the  Lord's  doing,  and  marvellous  in  our  eyes  ;  and  to  him 
belongeth  all  the  praise,  who  is  over  all,  blessed  for  ever. 

We  parted  from  them  with  solid  satisfaction,  and  peace  of 
mind ;  and  after  dinner  took  a  solemn  and  very  affectionate 
leave  of  oxa  friends,  and  rode  on  our  journey  about  four  miles, 
and  spent  the  evening  at  the  house  of  our  esteemed  friend 
Benjamin  Stokes.  We  returned  and  lodged  with  our  kind 
friend  John  Barnes  ;  and  the  following  day  attended  a  meeting, 

by  our  appointment,  at  a  place  called  the  Ridge ;  it  was  a  cora- 

53 


418 


JOURNAL  OV 


fortablc  opportunity.  The  next  day  we  attended  a  meeting  at 
Orange.  Here  those  called  Orthodox  made  great  disturbance, 
and  hurt  the  meeting  very  considerably.  The  day  after,  Ave 
had  a  meeting  at  a  place  called  Silver  Creek.  This  was  a 
precious  meeting,  in  which  truth  reigned  over  all. 

We  then  proceeded  on  our  journey  towards  Cincinnati,  and 
arrived  there  on  seventh  day,  the  18th  of  10th  month.  The 
next  day  being  first  day,  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  that 
place,  at  the  usual  time,  which  was  very  large,  many  more 
attending  than  the  house  could  contain  :  and  at  three  o'clock  in 
the  afternoon,  we  appointed  a  meeting  to  be  held  in  the  court- 
house. Both  these  meetings  were  highly  favoured  seasons,  in 
which  truth  was  raised  into  dominion  oyer  all  opposition,  to  the 
praise  of  Him,  who  is  calling  us  to  glory  and  to  virtue. 

On  second  day  morning  we  proceeded  on  our  journey,  towards 
home  ;  and  attending  meetings  in  our  way,  in  the  course  of  the 
week,  at  Salt  Creek,  Salem,  alias  Rochester,  Newberry,  and  Clear 
Creek.  All  these  meetings  were  composed  of  people  of  varied  pro- 
fessions, to  whom  the  gospel  \vas  preached  in  the  demonstration 
of  the  spirit,  attended  wit  h  a  power  which  silenced  all  opposition, 
humbling  and  contriling  many  hearts,  without  respect  of  per- 
sons or  sects  ;  and  Friends  were  comforted  together,  and  made 
to  rejoice  for  the  unmerited  favour ;  and  we  parted  from  them 
under  a  thankful  sense  of  the  Lord's  mercy,  and  with  peace  of 
mind. 

The  next  day  being  first  day,  and  26th  of  10th  month,  we 
attended  Fairfield  meeting  ;  and  notice  being  given  of  our 
intention  of  attending  it,  the  meeting  was  very  large.  Here 
those  called  Orthodox  made  public  opposition  in  the  early  part 
of  the  meeting  ;  one  of  them  informing  the  assembly  that  I  was 
travelling  without  having  the  unity  of  my  Friends,  and  other 
incorrect  declarations,  which  I  passed  over  vdthout  notice  at  the 
time.  The  meeting  was  soon  gathered  into  a  solemn  quiet,  and 
I  had  a  favoured  opportunity  to  declare  the  tnith  among  them, 
which  was  raised  into  dominion,  and  many  hearts  were  hum- 
bled and  contrited.  Before,  however,  I  had  concluded  my 
communication,  those  called  Orthodox,  to  manifest  further  dis- 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


419 


unity,  rose  and  left  the  meeting ;  but  Friends  and  others  kept 
their  seats,  and  we  had  a  very  solemn  close,  and  great  broken- 
ness  and  contrition  were  manifest  among  the  people ;  and  to 
do  away  the  false  reports  spread  by  the  Orthodox,  I  had  my  cer- 
tificates read,  which  gave  full  satisfaction  to  the  assembly;  and 
we  took  an  affectionate  farewell  of  ovrr  friends  and  others  present. 

We  then  proceeded  on  our  journey  to  Wheeling  in  Virginia,  a 
town  situated  on  the  east  side  of  Ohio  river.  We  arrived  here 
on  sixth  day,  the  31st,  a  little  before  noon,  and  had  an  appointed 
meeting  in  the  evening.  As  Friends  have  no  meeting-house  in 
this  place,  it  was  held  in  the  Methodist  meeting-house,  which 
they  kindly  offered  of  their  own  accord.  It  was  a  pretty  large 
collection  of  people,  mostly  made  up  of  other  societies,  the  num- 
ber of  Friends  there  being  very  small,  insomuch  that  they  have 
no  steady  meeting  in  the  place.  It  was  a  comfortable,  favoured 
opportunity. 

We  left  them  with  peace  of  mind,  and  proceeded  on  our  jour- 
ney to  Westland,  in  the  limits  of  Redstone  quarterly  meeting, 
where  we  arrived  on  first  day,  the  2d  of  11th  month,  in  time  to 
attend  their  meeting.  It  was  a  very  solemn  edifying  opportunity, 
in  which  the  power  of  truth  was  exalted  over  all  opposition. 
After  this  we  proceeded  on  to  Redstone,  about  seven  miles,  cross- 
ing the  Monongahela  river  in  the  way ;  and  the  next  day  had 
an  appointed  meeting  in  that  town,  at  two  o'clock  in  the  after- 
noon. 

The  day  after  we  passed  on  towards  Waterford,  alias  Fairfax, 
in  Virginia,  where  we  arrived  on  first  day  the  9th  of  11th  month, 
and  attended  their  meeting  at  the  usual  hour.  At  two  o'clock 
in  the  afternoon,  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  for  the  inhabitants 
of  the  town  in  general ;  and  the  two  following  days  attended 
meetings,  by  appointment,  at  Goose  Creek  and  Southwest  Fork. 
These  were  all  large  favoured  meetings,  particularly  the  two  last, 
•wherein  I  was  led  to  expose  the  great  evil  of  oppression,  especially 
that  enormous  sin  of  holding  our  fellow  creatures  in  slavery. 
Although  in  my  communication  I  was  led  to  lay  judgment  to 
the  line,  and  justice  to  the  plumb  hne ;  yet  the  slave-holders, 
divers  of  whom  were  present,  were  so  brought  down  and  humbled 


420 


JOURNAL  OF 


with  the  force  and  correctness  of  the  testimony,  that  they  frankly 
acknowledged  the  truth  and  propriety  of  it ;  and  we  parted  from 
them  with  true  peace  of  mind,  and  the  honest-hearted  were  made 
to  rejoice  for  the  favour  dispensed  from  the  hand  of  the  gracious 
Benefactor  of  every  blessing. 

The  next  day  we  rode  to  Alexandria,  forty-three  miles,  and 
lodged  with  our  kind  fiiend  Phineas  Janney,  and  the  day  after 
attended  their  meeting  as  it  came  in  course,  and  in  the  evening 
had  another  meeting  for  the  inhabitants  of  the  town  in  general. 
These  were  opportunities  of  favour :  many  truths  of  the  gospel 
were  set  forth  before  the  people,  in  the  demonstration  of  the 
spirit,  which  brought  a  solemnity  over  the  assembly,  to  the  com- 
fort and  edification  of  the  upright  in  heart.  The  next  day  we 
rode  to  Washington,  and  attended  a  meeting  there  in  the  eve- 
ning. This  was  rather  a  trying  season  in  the  forepart,  but,  I 
tmst,  it  ended  well. 

We  then  proceeded  to  Sandy  Spring,  in  Maryland,  and  on 
first  day,  the  16th  of  11th  month,  attended  Friends'  meeting 
there  ;  and  notice  being  given  of  our  expectation  of  attending  it, 
the  meeting  was  large ;  and  through  condescending  goodness,  it 
proved  to  be  a  very  favoured  instructive  season,  and  I  parted  with 
them  with  a  thankful  heart,  and  tiue  peace  of  mind.  The  next 
day  we  proceeded  on  our  journey  to  Elk  Ridge,  and  lodged  with 
our  kind  friend  George  Ellicot ;  and  the  day  following  being  third 
day,  we  had,  by  appointment,  a  very  comfortable,  favoured  meet- 
ing with  Friends:  many  of  the  neighbouring  inhabitants  likewise 
attended,  and  appeared  well  satisfied  with  the  opportunity.  Many 
minds  were  humbled  and  contrited,  and  a  precious  solemnity 
prevailed  over  the  meeting. 

After  this  meeting  we  dined  at  our  lodgings,  and  that  after- 
noon proceeded  in  company  with  our  kind  friend  John  Mareh, 
who  met  us  at  this  meeting,  six  miles  on  our  way  to  Baltimore, 
and  lodged  at  his  house.  In  the  morning  we  rode  into  the  city, 
and  on  that  and  the  following  day  attended  Friends'  meetings 
held  in  the  middle  of  the  week,  at  the  upper  arid  lower  houses ; 
and  not  feeling  fully  clear,  on  sixth  day  evening,  we  had  an 
appointed  meeting  for  the  inhabitants  of  the  town  in  general,  at 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


4^1 


the  upper  house.  This  was  a  very  large  meeting,  made  up  of 
ahuost  every  class  of  tlie  people,  among  whom,  as  to  religious  pro- 
fession, were  Romanists,  Episcopalians,  Presbyterians,  Baptists, 
Methodists,  Unitarians,  and  others  of  divers  descriptions,  and  some 
slave-holders.  These  meetings  were  seasons  of  favour,  particularly 
the  last,  in  which  truth  in  a  very  extraordinary  manner  was 
raised  into  victory  over  all,  bowing  and  breaking  down  all  under 
its  baptizing  influence,  so  that  it  appeared  as  though  the  whole 
assembly  were  baptized  into  one  body ;  and  wlien  the  meeting 
closed,  all  seemed  desirous  to  take  me  by  the  hand.  Surely  it 
was  the  Lord's  doing,  and  marvellous  in  mine  eyes  ;  and  I  parted 
with  them  with  gratitude  and  thankfulness  of  heart. 

The  day  following  we  rode  to  Gunpowder  Falls  ;  and  the 
next  day  being  first  day,  and  23d  of  the  lith.  month,  we 
attended  Friends'  meeting  there ;  and  information  being  given 
of  our  intention  of  attending  it,  the  meeting  was  large,  and 
through  the  condescending  goodness  of  Israel's  unslumbering 
Shepherd,  whose  mercy  is  over  all  his  works,  it  proved  a  precious 
favoured  opportunity,  in  which  many  hearts  were  humbled  and 
contrited,  and  truth  was  raised  into  dominion.  The  day  follow- 
ing we  went  to  the  Little  Falls,  and  on  third  day,  the  25th, 
attended  Friends',  meeting  in  that  place,  and  the  day  after 
attended  Deer  Creek  meeting.  These  were  very  large  favoured 
opportunities.  After  this  we  proceeded  on  our  journey,  crossing 
the  river  Susquehannah  on  our  way  to  Little  Britain;  and  on 
the  three  following  days  we  attended  meetings  at  Little  Britain, 
West  and  East  Nottingham.  These  were  seasons  to  be  remem- 
bered, in  which  the  Lord's  power  was  eminently  manifested 
by  its  solemnizing  influence.    Surely  it  was  the  Lord's  doing. 

On  second  day,  the  ist  of  12th  month,  we  proceeded  to  West 
Grove,  in  Chester  county.  Here  om*  opposing  brethren  shut 
the  meeting-house  against  us,  and  the  care-taker  of  it  refused 
to  open  it.  However,  when  the  people  assembled,  which  they 
did  in  great  numlx'rs,  many  more  than  the  house  could  contain, 
it  was  opened  ;  and  we  had  a  very  favoured,  solemn  opportunity 
Avith  them,  in  which  truth  reigned  over  all.  The  tliree  follow- 
ing days  we  attended  the  monthly  meetings  of  London  Grove, 


422 


JOURNAL  OP 


New  Garden,  and  Pallowfield,  as  they  came  in  their  usual 
course ;  and  notice  being  given,  of  our  attending  them,  to  the 
neighbouring  inhabitants,  great  numbers  of  the  varied  classes 
of  the  people  assembled  with  Friends  ;  insomuch  that  none  of 
the  houses  were  large  enough  to  contain  the  multitude,  and  in 
some  instances  there  were  nearly  as  many  standing  without  as 
the  houses  contained.  These  were  all  highly  favoured  seasons, 
the  Lord's  power  evidently  presiding  over  these  large  assemblies, 
solemnizing  and  humbling  with  its  overshadowing  influence, 
and  causing  a  profound  silence  to  prevail  over  all,  to  the  praise 
of  him  who  is  over  all,  God  blessed  for  ever. 

On  the  two  following  days  we  attended  meetings  at  Marl- 
borough and  West  Chester.  The  first  was  by  our  appointment, 
the  latter  on  first  day.  These  meetings  were  like  the  former ; 
great  numbers  attended  more  than  the  houses  could  contain : 
nevertheless,  order  and  stillness  prevailed  in  a  remarkable 
manner  in  and  without  the  houses,  in  every  place,  to  the  comfort 
and  rejoicing  of  Friends,  and  to  the  instruction  and  edification, 
I  trust,  of  the  assembled  multitudes.  We  took  leave  of  them 
under  an  humbling  sense  of  the  unmerited  favour,  and  with 
true  peace  of  mind. 

On  second  day,  the  8th  of  the  month,  we  attended  Kennet 
meeting,  and  on  third  and  fourth  days  we  had  meetings  at 
Kennet  Square  and  Centre.  These  were  all  Crowded  meetings, 
and  in  them  all  the  divine  presence  was  felt  to  preside,  solem- 
nizing the  assembUes,  and  comforting  and  rejoicing  the  honest- 
hearted. 

On  fifth  and  sixth  days  we  attended  meetings  at  Hockesson 
and  Stanton.  Both  were  crowded,  solemn  meetings,  and,  I 
trust,  instructive  and  profitable  to  many  who  were  present.  After 
the  latter,  we  rode  that  afternoon  to  Wilmington,  and  rested  on 
seventh  day  with  our  friend  William  Poole,  who  was  in  a  weak 
state  from  bodily  indisposition,  but  was  so  far  recovered  as  to 
walk  about.  On  first  day,  the  14th,  we  attended  Friends' 
meetings  in  Wilmington,  both  forenoon  and  afternoon.  They 
were  both  very  large.  In  the  forenoon  meeting  I  had  good 
service,  but  in  the  afternoon  I  was  mostly  silent,  as  the  people 


ELI  AS  HICKS. 


423 


appeared  to  be  too  much  hungering  for  words,  and  too  indifferent 

and  careless  in  putting  in  practice  what  tiiey  had  aheady  heard 
and  knew  to  be  their  duty.  Hence  I  was  led  to  set  them  an 
example  of  silence. 

We  left  Wilmington  on  second  day  morning,  and  proceeded 
to  Concord,  and  attended  a  meeting  there  by  previous  appoint- 
ment. The  four  following  days  we  attended  meetings  at  Middle- 
town,  Providence,  Chester,  and  Darby.  These  were  all  very 
large  favoured  opportunities,  in  which  the  Lord's  power  was 
felt  to  preside,  causing  a  precious  solemnity  to  spread  over  the 
assemblies,  and  humbling  and  contriting  many  minds.  To  the 
Lord  be  the  praise  and  glory  of  his  own  work  ;  nothing  due  to 
man. 

Leaving  Darby,  we  proceeded  on  to  Philadelphia ;  and  on 
first  day,  the  21st  of  12th  month,  we  attended  Friends'  meetings 
in  the  city,  that  at  Cherry-street  in  the  morning,  and  at  Green- 
street  in  the  afternoon.  At  botii  these  meetings  hundreds  more 
assembled  than  the  houses  could  contain.  On  second  day  we 
left  the  city,  and  attended  meetings,  in  the  course  of  the  week, 
at  Haverford,  Radnor,  Newtown,  WiUistown,  and  the  Valley. 
All  these  meetings  were  unusually  large ;  the  houses  were 
generally  too  small  to  contain  the  people ;  many  had  to  stand 
out  of  doors  for  want  of  room  ;  nevertheless,  the  people  behaved 
orderly,  and  the  Lord's  presence  was'felt  to  preside,  solemnizing 
those  crowded  assemblies,  in  all  of  which  my  mind  was  opened, 
and  ability  afforded,  to  preach  the  gospel  to  the  people  in  the 
demonstration  of  the  spirit  and  with  power,  and  many  hearts 
were  broken  and  contrited,  and  went  away  rejoicing,  under  a 
thankful  sense  of  the  unmerited  favour.  . 

After  this  we  returned  to  the  city,  and  on  first  day,  the  28th 
of  the  month,  we  again  attended  Friends'  meetings  there,  in  the 
same  order  as  before.  On  second  day  we  attended  Frankfort 
meeting  by  appointment.  These  were  all  large  favoured  meet- 
ings ;  many  had  lo  leave  those  in  the  city  for  want  of  room. 
My  opposing  brethren  had,  by  their  public  opposition  and  erro- 
neous reports,  created  such  excitement  in  the  minds  of  the  people 
generally  of  every  profession,  that  it  induced  multitudes  to  assem- 


424 


JOURNAL  OP 


ble  to  hear  for  themselves ;  and  they  generally  went  away  satis- 
fied and  comforted. 

On  third  day  we  took  leave  of  our  friends  in  Philadelphia, 
and  passed  over  into  New  Jersey  ;  and  the  four  following  days 
attended  meetings  at  MuUica  Hill,  Piles  Grove,  Salem,  and 
Woodbury.  These  were  very  large  favoured  meetings ;  and  I 
felt  true  peace  of  mind  as  a  rich  reward  for  my  labour  and 
exercise  among  them. 

We  attended  Haddonfield  meeting  on  first  day,  the  4th  of  1st 
month,  1829.  Here  Friends,  and  those  who  styled  themselves 
Ortliodox,  met  together  in  the  same  house.  As  notice  was 
given  of  my  attendance,  the  people  assembled  in  great  numbers  ; 
and  as  soon  as  the  meeting  was  fully  gathered,  a  precious 
solemnity  was  felt  to  spread  over  the  assembly  ;  and  the  Lord, 
our  gracious  helper,  was  near  for  our  support  and  strength,  and 
the  truth  was  raised  triumphantly  over  all  opposition. 

The  four  following  days  we  attended  meetings  at  Moore's 
Town,  Evesham,  Cropwell,  Mount  Holly,  and  Upper  Evesham. 
These  were  very  large  meetings,  in  which  the  Lord  our  gracious 
helper  made  bare  his  arm  for  our  svipport,  enabling  to  hand  forth 
out  of  the  treasury  things  new  and  old,  to  the  comfort  and  edifi- 
cation of  the  honest-hearted,  and  solid  peace  of  my  own  mind  ; 
to  Him  be  all  the  praise,  nothing  due  to  man. 

On  first  day  the  11th,  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Ran- 
cocus.  This  was  said  to  be  the  largest  meeting  ever  known  in 
that  place ;  in  which  the  Lord's  presence  was  felt  to  preside, 
humbling  and  contriting  many  minds,  and  baptizing  the  whole 
assembly  into  a  very  precious  solemnity ;  and  causing  the 
upright  in  heart  to  rejoice,  imder  a  thankful  sense  of  the 
unmerited  favoiu'. 

In  the  course  of  this  week  we  attended  meetings  at  Old 
Springfield  on  second  day,  Mansfield  on  third  day.  Upper  Spring- 
field on  fourth  day,  Arney's  Town  on  fifth  day,  Crosswicks, 
alias  Chesterfield  on  sixth  day,  Bordentown  on  seventh  day, 
and  Trenton  on  first  day.  All  these  were  fn\  oured  opportuni- 
ties, and  in  them  all,  although  under  considerable  indisposition 
of  body,  I  was  favoured  with  strength,  and  way  opened  to  labour 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


425 


in  the  Lord's  cause  in  which  I  was  engaged,  and  which  pro- 
duced that  true  peace  of  mind,  that  the  world  with  all  its  perish- 
ing enjoyments  cannot  give,  nor  all  its  frowns  and  opposition 
take  away. 

On  second  day  we  proceeded  on  our  journey  towards  New- 
York,  being  desirous  of  reaching  our  quarterly  meeting  to  be 
held  there  on  the  following  fifth  day.  We  arrived  in  the  city 
on  third  day  afternoon,  where  I  met  my  beloved  wife  and 
daughter  Elizabeth,  and  several  other  branches  of  my  family, 
and  a  number  more  of  my  near  and  intimate  friends.  It  was 
truly  a  season  of  mutual  rejoicing,  and  my  spirit  was  deeply 
humbled  under  a  thankful  sense  of  the  Lord's  preserving  power 
and  adorable  mercy,  in  carrying  me  through  and  over  all  oppo- 
sition, both  within  and  udthout.  He  caused  all  to  work  together 
for  good,  and  the  promotion  of  his  own  glorious  cause  of  truth 
and  righteousness  in  the  earth,  and  landed  me  safe  in  the  bosom 
of  my  dear  family  and  friends  at  home,  and  clothed  my  spirit  with 
the  reward  of  sweet  peace  for  all  my  labour  and  travail.  Praises, 
everlasting  high  praises,  be  ascribed  unto  our  God,  for  his  mercy 
endureth  for  ever. 

On  seventh  day,  after  the  quarterly  meeting  we  returned 
home,  having  been  out  on  this  journey  seven  months  and  ten 
days,  and  travelled  nearly  twenty-four  hundred  miles. 

Soon  after  my  return  from  the  aforesaid  journey,  I  had  to  ex- 
perience a  very  severe  trial  and  afihction  in  the  removal  of  my 
dearly  beloved  wife.  She  was  taken  down  with  a  cold,  and 
although,  for  a  number  of  days,  we  had  no  anticipation  of  dan- 
ger from  her  complaint,  yet  about  five  days  after  she  was  taken, 
the  disorder  appeared  to  settle  on  her  lungs,  and  it  brought  on 
an  inflammation  which  terminated  in  a  dissolution  of  her  pre- 
cious life,  on  the  ninth  day  from  the  time  she  was  taken  ill. 
She  had  but  little  bodily  pain,  yet  as  she  became  weaker,  she 
suffered  from  shortness  of  breathing  ;  but  before  her  close,  she 
became  perfectly  tranquil  and  easy,  and  passed  away  like  a  lamb, 
as  though  entering  into  a  sweet  sleep,  without  sigh  or  groan,  or 
the  least  bodily  pain,  on  the  17th  of  3d  month,  1829  :  And  her 
precious  spirit,  I  trust  and  believe,  has  landed  safely  on  the  an- 

54 


426 


JOURNAL  OF 


gelic  shore,  "where  the  wicked  cease  from  troubUng,  and  the 
weary  are  at  rest."  To  myself,  to  whom  she  was  a  truly  affec- 
tionate wife,  and  to  our  children,  whom  she  endeavoured,  by 
precept  and  example,  to  train  up  in  the  paths  of  virtue,  and  to 
guard  and  keep  out  of  harm's  way,  her  removal  is  a  great 
and  iiTeparable  loss :  and  nothing  is  left  to  us  in  that  behalf, 
but  a  confident  belief,  and  an  unshaken  hope,  that  our  great 
loss  is  her  still  greater  gain  ;  and  although  the  loss  and  trial  as 
to  all  my  external  blessings,  are  the  greatest  I  have  ever  met 
with,  or  ever  expect  to  have  to  endure,  yet  I  have  a  hope,  that, 
though  separated,  I  may  be  preserved  from  mourning  or  complain- 
ing ;  and  that  I  may  continually  keep  in  view  the  unmerited 
favour  dispensed  to  us,  by  being  preserved  together  fifty-eight 
years  in  one  unbroken  bond  of  endeared  affection,  which  seemed 
if  possible  to  increase  with  time  to  the  last  moment  of  her  life  ; 
and  which  neither  time  nor  distance  can  lessen  or  dissolve ;  but 
m  the  spiritual  relation  I  trust  it  will  endure  for  ever,  Avhere  all 
the  Lord's  redeemed  children  are  one  in  him,  who  is  God  over 
all,  in  all,  and  through  aU,  blessed  for  ever.  She  was  biuied 
on  the  19th,  and  on  this  solemn  occasion,  the  Lord,  who  is 
strength  in  weakness,  enabled  me  to  bear  a  public,  and  I  trust  a 
profitable  testmiony,  to  the  virtues  and  excellences  of  her  long 
and  consistent  life. 

On  the  24th  of  6th  month,  1S29,  I  again  left  home  with 
Cornwell  "VVillis  for  my  companion,  to  complete  the  visit  to 
Friends  and  others  in  the  compass  of  our  )^early  meeting,  agree- 
ably to  a  certificate  I  received  from  our  monthly  and  quarterly 
meetings,  expressive  of  their  unity  with  me  therein.  This  cer- 
tificate I  received  in  the  spring  of  the  year  1828,  expressive  of 
my  concern  to  pay  a  religious  visit  to  Friends  and  others,  in  parts 
of  the  yearly  meetings  of  Philadelphia,  Baltimore,  Virginia, 
Ohio,  Indiana,  and  New- York.  I  accomplished  my  visit  to  the 
first  four  last  season  ;  that  is,  I  visited  parts  of  them,  but  found 
my  mind  released  without  going  into  the  yearly  meeting  of 
Virginia. 

Since  I  left  home,  we  have  attended  meetings  at  Flushing, 
Newtown,  Brooklyn,  and  two  at  New^-York  last  first  day.  These 


ELIAS  HICKS.  427 

were  favoured  comforting  opportunities,  affording  encouragement 
to  persevere  in  the  path  of  duty. 

We  left  New-York  on  second  day  the  29th,  after  taking  an 
affectionate  farewell  of  our  friends  there,  and  proceeded  to  West 
Chester,  and  attended  a  meeting  at  that  place  at  the  eleventh 
hour  ;  and  on  the  two  following  days,  attended  meetings  at 
Maniaroneck  and  Purchase.  On  fifth  day  we  attended  Friends' 
meeting  at  Middlesex;  and  on  sixth  and  seventh  days,  had 
meetings  appointed  for  us  at  a  place  called  the  Saw  Pits,  and  at 
Friends'  meeting-house  at  North  Castle.  All  these  meetings 
were  seasons  of  favour,  in  which  the  divine  presence  was  felt  to 
preside,  solenmizing  the  assemblies,  and  affording  ability  to 
minister  to  the  people  in  gospel  authority,  and  tendering  and 
contriting  many  hearts.  To  the  Lord  be  all  the  praise,  nothing 
due  to  man. 

On  first  day,  the  5th  of  7th  month,  we  attended  Shapaqua 
meeting  in  the  morning,  and  had  an  appointed  meeting  at 
Croton  Valley,  at  the  fourth  hour  in  the  afternoon.  The  three 
following  days  we  attended  meetings  by  appointment  at  Ama- 
walk,  Salem,  and  at  the  Valley,  called  Haviland's  Hollow. 
These  were  all  unusually  large  meetings,  in  which  truth  reigned 
over  all,  to  the  praise  of  His  great  name,  who  giveth  us  the 
victory.  From  the  latter  meeting  we  proceeded  to  Oblong,  and 
put  up  with  our  kind  friend  Daniel  Merritt,  and  the  next  day 
attended  their  meeting.  The  two  following  days  we  had  meet- 
ings by  our  appointment  at  the  Branch,  and  Poughquague; 
and  on  first  day  attended  Nine  Partners  meeting.  Those  four 
meetings  were  unusually  large,  and  very  solemn  opportunities ; 
in  which  truth's  testimony  went  forth  freely,  tendering  and 
contriting  many  hearts,  and  rejoicing  the  faithful  travellers 
Zionward. 

The  two  following  days,  we  had  meetings  at  Chestnut  Ridge 
and  Oswego.  These  were  likewise  large  satisfactory  meetings. 
We  then  proceeded  by  the  way  of  Poughkeepsie,  to  Marlborough, 
in  order  to  attend  Cornwall  quarterly  meeting,  held  at  Marlbo- 
rough at  this  time.  It  o]?ened  on  fourth  day,  the  15th  of  7th 
month,  with  a  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders.    The  next  day 


428 


JOURNAL  OF 


the  meeting  for  discipline  was  held.  Both  were  very  favoured 
seasons.  As  I  did  not  feel  easy  to  leave  the  place  without 
having  a  public  opportunity  with  the  people  at  large  in  that 
neighbourhood,  a  meeting  was  appointed  the  next  day.  This 
was  likewise  a  large  favoured  opportunity.  The  following 
day  being  seventh  day,  we  returned  to  Poughkeepsie,  in  order 
to.  attend  Friends'  meeting  on  first  day ;  and  having  also 
appointed  a  meeting  to  be  held  there,  at  the  fifth  hour  in  the 
afternoon,  for  the  inhabitants  of  the  town  at  large.  These 
meetings  were  largely  attended,  in  which  the  power  of  truth 
was  exalted  over  all. 

The  four  following  days  we  attended  meetings  at  West 
Branch,  Pleasant  Valley,  Creek,  and  Crumelbow.  Although 
it  was  in  the  midst  of  harvest,  such  was  the  excitement  produced 
amongst  the  people  by  the  opposition  made  by  those  of  our 
members  who  had  gone  off  from  us,  and  set  up  separate  meet- 
ings, that  the  people  at  large  of  other  societies  flocked  to  those 
meetings  in  such  niunbers,  that  our  meeting-houses  were  seldom 
large  enough  to  contain  the  assembled  multitude  ;  and  we  had 
abundant  cause  for  thanksgiving  and  gratitude  to  the  blessed 
Author  of  all  our  mercies,  in  condescending  to  manifest  his  holy 
presence,  and  causing  it  so  to  preside  as  to  produce  a  general 
solemnity,  tendering  and  contriting  many  minds,  and  comfort- 
ing and  rejoicing  the  upright  in  heart. 

After  the  last  mentioned  meeting  we  proceeded  on  our  jour- 
ney, attending  meetings  at  Stanford,  Milan,  and  on  first  day  the 
26th  of  7th  month,  the  forenoon  and  afternoon  meetings  at 
Hudson.  On  second  day  we  rested,  on  third  day  attended  a 
meeting  at  Athens,  on  fourth  day  at  Ghent,  on  fifth  day  at 
Chatham,  on  sixth  day  at  Nassau,  and  on  seventh  day  evening 
we  had  a  large  meeting  in  Albany,  held  in  their  state-house, 
generally  composed  of  people  of  other  professions  and  inhabitants 
of  the  town,  who  behaved  themselves  very  soberly,  becoming 
the  occasion.  It  was  a  solemn,  and,  I  trust,  a  profitable  oppor- 
tunity, m  which  truth  was  raised  into  dominion ;  and  which 
in  like  manner  was  witnessed  in  all  the  foregoing  meetings,  the 
people  coming  together  very  freely  and  in  great  numbers,  and 


E1.IAS  HICKS. 


429 


a  general  solemnity  prevailed  over  the  assemblies  from  meeting 
to  meeting.  Surely  it  was  the  Lord's  doing,  and  it  was  mar- 
vellous in  our  eyes  ;  witnessing  that  he  had  not  left  hiixiself  with- 
out an  evidence  of  the  truth  ui  each  mind,  by  which  their 
understandings  were  opened  to  receive,  and  many  of  them  to 
bear  testunony  to  the  doctrines  dehvered  in  those  large  solemn 
meetings. 

From  Albany  we  proceeded  on  first  day  morning,  the  2d  of 
8th  month,  to  Troy,  and  attended  theii"  forenoon  and  afternoon 
meetings.  These  were  very  large  meetings.  The  first  was 
held  in  Friends'  meeting-house,  but  great  numbers  collected 
more  than  the  house  could  contain  :  this  induced  Friends  to 
accept  the  offer  of  a  house  belonging  to  the  Episcopalians,  which 
was  not  occupied,  for  the  accommodation  of  the  afternoon  meet- 
ing. They  gave  the  citizens  an  invitation  to  attend  ;  and 
although  it  was  a  very  large  building,  yet  it  did  not  contain  the 
people  who  assembled,  many  had  to  go  away  for  want  of  room. 
This  was  likewise  a  highly  favoured  opportunity,  in  which  truth 
reigned  to  the  comfort  and  edification  of  the  upright  in  heart, 
and  to  the  general  satisfaction  of  the  assembled  multitude.  It 
was,  in  the  estmiation  of  Friends,  the  largest  meeting  which 
had  ever  been  assembled  on  any  occasion  before  in  that  city. 

On  second  day  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Greenbush, 
a  village  on  the  east  side  of  the  river,  opposite  Albany.  After 
this  we  proceeded  on  our  journey  about  eleven  miles  to  the  town 
of  Bethlehem,  southwesterly  from  Albany.  Here  we  lodged 
with  our  kind  friend  Thomas  Rushmore,  and  attended  a  meet- 
ing in  his  house  by  appointment,  on  third  day ;  the  few  Friends 
of  that  place  were  privileged  with  holding  a  meeting  for  worship 
in  this  Friends'  house.  On  fourth  day  we  attended  Friends' 
meeting  at  Stanton  Hill ;  and  the  three  following  days  attended 
meetings  at  New  Baltimore,  Rensselaerville,  and  Oak  Hill. 
These  were  all  large  satisfactory  meetings. 

On  first  day  we  were  at  Bern  meeting  in  the  morning ;  and  at 
the  fourth  hour  in  the  afternoon  had  an  appointed  meeting  at 
a  village  called  Rensselaerville  City,  which  was  held  in  a  large 
meeting-house  belonging  to  the  Methodist  society.    These  were 


430 


JOtTRNAL  OP 


very  large  favoured  meetings,  in  which  the  truths  of  the  gospel 
went  forth  freely  to  the  people,  and  appeared  to  be  gladly  and 
satisfactorily  received  by  them  ;  and  I  took  leave  of  them  with 
true  peace  of  mind.  On  second  day  we  had  an  appointed  meeting 
at.Middleburgh,  much  to  our  satisfaction.  It  was  a  very  solemn 
instructive  opportunity,  and  the  people  appeared  to  receive  the 
word  preached  with  much  readiness  of  mind,  and  we  left  them 
with  thankful  hearts. 

We  proceeded  on  third  day  to  Duanesburgh,  in  order  to  attend 
their  quarterly  meeting,  which  opened  there  the  next  day  with 
a  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders,  and  Avas  a  favoured  opportu- 
nity. The  meeting  for  discipline  was  large,  and  the  business 
conducted  in  much  harmony  and  condescension  ;  and  the  public 
meeting  the  next  day  was  very  large ;  hundreds  had  to  stand 
out  of  doors  for  want  of  room ;  and  it  was  a  highly  favoured 
season,  worthy  of  grateful  remembrance. 

From  thence  we  proceeded  to  Charleston,  and  attended 
Friends'  meeting  there  on  first  day,  the  16th  of  8th  month.  This 
was  likewise  a  very  large  meeting,  the  largest.  Friends  said,  that 
had  ever  been  known  there  before.  It  was  judged,  that  as  many 
stood  without  for  want  of  room,  as  the  house  contained  ;  and  it 
was  a  very  solemn  time,  both  within  and  without  the  doors. 
The  divine  canopy  was  felt  to  spread  over  the  whole  assembly, 
and  we  took  leave  of  them  with  true  peace  of  mind  and  thank- 
fulness of  heart,  under  a  grateful  sense  of  the  unmerited  favour. 

On  second  day  we  rode  to  Utica  ;  and  the  next  day  had  an 
appointed  meeting  there  at  the  eleventh  hour.  After  this  we 
proceeded  to  Bridgewater,  and  attended  their  fourth  day  meeting. 
These  were  not  so  large  as  in  some  other  places,  neithei-  was 
there  as  much  openness  to  receive  our  testimony  as  had  generally 
been  the  case  elsewhere.  Our  opposing  Friends  had  filled  their 
heads  with  so  many  strange  reports,  to  which  they  had  given 
credit  without  examination,  by  which  their  minds  were  so 
strongly  prejudiced  against  me,  that  niany  in  the  compass  of 
these  two  last  meetings,  were  not  willing  to  see  me,  nor  hear 
any  reasons  given  to  show  them  their  mistakes,  and  that  the 
reports  they  had  heard  Avere  altogether  unfounded :  however, 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


431 


I  was  favoured  to  communicate  the  truth  to  those  who  attended, 
so  that  they  generally  went  away  fully  satisfied,  and  I  left  them 
with  peace  of  mind. 

From  this  place  we  proceeded  to  Deruyter,  having  a  meeting 
at  Smyrna,  on  sixth  day,  in  our  way.  On  first  day  we  attended 
Friends'  meeting  at  Deruyter  in  the  morning,  and  at  the  fifth 
-  hour  in  the  afternoon  had  an  appointed  meeting  in  Demyter 
village  for  the  inhabitants  generally,  which  was  held  in  the 
Baptist  meeting-house.  These  two  meetings  were  very  large, 
and  they  were  highly  favoured  opportunities,  in  which  truth 
was  raised  into  dominion  over,  all  opposition ;  and  we  parted 
from  them  with  true  peace  of  mind,  a  rich  reward  for  a  faithful 
discharge  of  duty. 

The  next  day,  the  24th  of  8th  month,  we  proceeded  to  Sem- 
pronius,  having  a  meeting  by  previous  appointment  on  our  way, 
in  tlie  town  of  Homer,  at  the  eleventh  hour.  It  was  held  in  a 
large  meeting-house  belonging  to  the  Methodist  society,  which 
they  fi  eely  offered  for  the  accommodation  of  the  people,  there 
being  no  Friends  in  the  place.  A  very  considerable  number  of 
the  inhabitants  attended,  and  behaved  soberly,  giving  good 
attention  to  what  was  communicated,  and  went  away  apparently 
satisfied  ;  and  we  parted  with  them  under  an  humbling  sense 
that  the  appointment,  and  our  labour  and  service  in  this  meet- 
ing, were  owned  by  tire  Head  of  the  Church.  We  arrived  at 
Sempronius  about  sunset,  and  had  an  appointed  meeting  there 
tVie  next  day,  held  in  Friends'  meeting-house  at  the  third  hour 
in  the  afternoon.  This  was  likewise  a  favoured  opportunity,  in 
which  the  power  of  truth  went  forth  freely,  humbling  and  con- 
triting  many  minds. 

After  this  we  proceeded  to  Skeneateles,  and  put  up  vdth  our 
kind  friend  William  Willets,  and  rested  here  the  next  day.  On 
fifth  day  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  this  place,  as  it  came 
in  course ;  and  notice  being  given  of  our  intention  of  attending 
it,  the  meeting  was  large.  This  was  a  very  comforting  satisfac- 
tory opportunity,  apparently  so  to  all  present,  although  composed 
of  many  of  the  members  of  the  varied  societies  of  professed  Chris- 
tians common  in  our  land,  and  divers  of  their  ministers. 


432 


JOURNAL  OP 


On  sixth  day  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  in  the  town  of 
Auburn,  at  the  third  hour  in  the  afternoon  ;  and  on  seventh  day, 
an  appointed  meeting  at  North-street,  in  Scipio.  These  meetings 
were  largely  attended,  and,  I  trust,  instructive  profitable  opportu- 
nities to  many  who  were  there.  After  the  latter  meeting,  we 
visited  several  families  of  Friends,  and  took  lodgings  with  our 
kind  friend  John  Merritt. 

The  next  day  being  the  first  of  the  week,  and  30th  of  8th 
month,  we  attended  the  meeting  at  South-street.  The  three 
following  days  we  had  meetings,  by  appointment,  at  Salmon 
Creek,  Aurora,  and  Union  Springs.  These  were  all  very  large 
favoured  meetings,  in  which  the  power  of  truth  went  forth  freely, 
and  appeared  to  have  a  ready  entrance  into  the  minds  of  the 
people  in  a  very  general  manner,  bringing  a  very  comfortable 
solemnity  over  these  large  assemblies ;  •  and  we  took  leave  of 
them  with  thankfid  hearts  and  in  true  peace  of  mind. 

We  then  proceeded  on  our  journey  to  Junius,  crossing  Cayuga 
lake  on  the  way.  Here  we  had  a  meeting  the  next  day,  the 
fifth  of  the  week,  and  3d  of  9th  month ;  and  the  day  following 
had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Galen.  These  were  highly  favoured 
opportunities,  in  which  the  Lord's  presence  was  felt  to  preside, 
reducing  the  assemblies  into  a  very  solemn  state,  and  truth  was 
raised  into  dominion  over  aU,  to  the  comfort  and  estabhshment  of 
Friends  on  the  ancient  foundation,  the  light  within ;  by  the 
power  and  efficacy  of  which,  our  primitive  worthies  were  gathered 
to  be  a  people,  from  among  the  varied  societies  of  professed  Chris- 
tians. For  they  were  settled  on  that  unshaken  rock,  which 
Jesus  told  his  disciples  he  would  build  his  Church  upon,  viz :  the 
revelation  of  his  heavenly  Father,  against  which  the  gates  of 
hell  should  never  be  able  to  prevail ;  and  although  the  powers 
of  the  earth  rose  up  against  them,  and  used  all  their  power  and 
pohcy,  both  priests  and  people,  to  overthrow  them,  yet  they  were 
never  permitted  to  prevail ;  for  the  Lord  Jehovah,  on  whose 
almighty  arm  they  had  placed  their  entire  trust  and  confidence 
for  support  and  defence,  delivered  them  from  all  their  tribulations, 
and  set  them  above  their  persecutors,  and  caused  them  to  rejoice 
on  the  banks  of  deliverance.    And  he  is  the  same  God  of  power 


ELIAS  IIICKS. 


433 


that  he  ever  was,  and  a  present  helper  in  every  needful  time ; 
and  although  many  in  the  pret^cnt  day,  who  have  left  their  first 
love,  are  rising  up,  and  charging  their  fellow-professors  ^\'ith 
holding  unsound  doctrines,  and  are  endeavouring,  by  unfounded 
and  reproachful  epithets,  to  destroy  and  undermine  their  religious 
and  moral  character  among  men,  and  have  separated  from  their 
brethren,  and  set  up  separate  meetings,  giving  them  the  names 
of  the  meetings  of  Friends ;  and  in  their  usurped  authority  under- 
taii;e  to  disown  their  fellow-members,  who  could  not  submit  to 
their  usurpation :  yet  all  their  formal  disownments  being  alto- 
gether out  of  the  order  of  the  gospel,  our  meetings  consider  them 
of  no  effect. 

From  Galen  we  proceeded  to  South  Farmington,  and  attended 

a  meeting  there  on  seventh  day,  at  the  third  hour  in  the  after- 
noon ;  and  the  next  day  being  first  day,  we  attended  North 
Farmington  meeting.  The  three  following  days  Ave  had  meet- 
ings at  Macedon,  Palmyra,  and  Williamson.  These  were  like- 
wise large  favoured  meetings,  in  which  truth  was  exalted  over 
all,  and  we  parted  with  them  in  true  peace  of  mind,  and  pro- 
ceeded on  our  joiuney  to  Rochester,  and  had  a  meeting  on  sixth 
day,  by  appointment :  we  also  staid  and  attended  their  meeting 
on  first  day. 

After  this  we  proceeded  to  Wheatland,  and  had  an  appointed 
meeting  there  on  second  day,  the  14th  of  9th  month  ;  on  third 
day  we  were  at  Henrietta,  and  on  fourth  day  at  Mendon. 
These  were  all  favoured  opportimities ;  the  people's  minds 
seemed  to  be  open  to  receive  us  and  ovn*  testimony  with  glad- 
ness. From  this  place  we  turned  back  through  Farmington 
and  Scipio,  to  Skeneateles,  and  attended  a  meeting  by  our 
appointment  at  a  village  about  five  miles  from  the  village  of 
Skeneateles,  on  the  east  side  of  the  lake.  On  first  day  we 
attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Skeneateles ;  on  i?econd  day  we 
proceeded  to  Verona ;  and  the  next  day  had  a  meeting  there, 
held  in  a  meeting-house  occupied  by  the  Baptists,  Friends' 
meeting-house  being  too  small  to  contain  the  people  who  assem- 
bled. 

55 


434 


JOURNAL  OP 


The  next  day  being  fourth  day,  we  proceeded  to  Utica-,  and 
had  an  appointed  meeting  in  the  evening.  Here  we  remained 
over  the  next  day,  and  attended  Friends'  meeting  as  it  came  in 
course.  From  this  place  we  proceeded  to  Charleston,  and 
attended  their  meeting  on  first  day.  These  meetings,  in  like 
manner,  were  all  solemn  seasons ;  and,  I  trust,  profitable  and 
comfortable  to  many  ;  and  I  left  them  with  peace  of  mind. 
After  the  last  meeting,  we  rode  about  thirteen  miles,  and  lodged 
with  our  kind  friend  Zacheus  Mead.  The  following  day  we 
proceeded  on  our  journey  to  Newtown ;  and  the  next  day  attended 
Friends'  meeting  there.  After  this  we  proceeded  to  Saratoga, 
and  attended  Friends'  preparative  meeting  at  that  place :  and 
not  feeling  clear  to  leave  it,  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  there 
the  day  after,  of  which  public  notice  was  given.  It  was  very 
large ;  and  it  proved  a  highly  favoured  season  ;  the  Lord's 
presence  was  manifested  for  our  help,  and  truth  was  raised  into 
dominion,  and  ran  like  oil  over  the  assembly.  Many  hearts 
were  broken  and  contrited,  and  the  upright  in  heart  were  made 
to  rejoice  for  the  unmerited  favour. 

The  following  day  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Milton. 
After  this  we  proceeded  to  Galway,  and  lodged  with  our  ancient 
friend  Philip  Macomber,  who  was  in  the  ninety-first  year  of  his 
age.  Here  we  had  a  meeting  on  seventh  day.  The  next  day, 
the  4th  of  10th  month,  we  attended  Providence  meeting,  which 
was  very  large.  On  second  day  we  had  an  appointed  meeting 
at  Mayfield.  These  were  all  seasons  of  favour,  particularly  that 
at  Providence,  in  which  truth  was  exalted  over  all  opposition, 
and  many  hearts  were  contrited ;  from  a  sense  of  which,  our 
minds  were  bowed  in  reverence  and  humiliation  before  Him, 
who  is  the  author  of  all  our  sure  mercies. 

We  proceeded  Iroin  Mayfield  to  Greenfield,  and  on  fourth  day 
attended  Friends'  monthly  meeting  at  that  place,  which  was 
composed  of  that  and  Milton  preparative  meetings.  We  had  good 
satisfaction  in  sitting  with  our  Friends,  and  in  observing  their 
commendable  order,  and  the  harmony  and  condescension  mani- 
fest in  conducting  the  affairs  of  the  Church. 


ELIAS  HICKS.  435 

From  thence  we  proceeded  to  Easton,  and  had  an  appointed 
meeting  there  on  sixth  day.  On  seventh  day  we  were  at  Cam- 
bridge, on  first  day  at  White  Creek,  and  on  second  day  we  rode 
to  Danby,  and  the  next  day  had  a  meeting  there.  These  were 
all  large  and  very  solemn  seasons,  in  which  the  great  Head  of 
the  Church  manifested  his  gracious  presence,  convicting  and 
contriting  many  minds,  and  the  upright  in  heart  were  edified. 
From  Danby  we  proceeded  to  Granville,  and  had  an  appointed 
meeting  there  the  next  day,  which  was  a  large  solemn  oppor- 
tunity. The  day  after  we  proceeded  on  our  journey  to  Shoram, 
a  town  on  the  eastern  shore  of  Lake  Champlain.  Here  we  had  a 
meeting  the  next  clay  with  the  few  Friends  of  that  place,  and 
some  of  the  neighbouring  inhabitants.  It  was  a  comfortable 
opportunity,  and  we  left  them  with  peace  of  mind.  We  then 
rode  to  Ferrisburgh,  and  on  first  day,  the  iSth  of  10th  month, 
had  a  very  large  favoured  meeting  at  that  place.  On  second 
day  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Monkton.  This  was  like- 
wise a  large  favoured  opportunity,  in  which  truth  reigned  over 
all  opposition,  to  the  praise  of  his  own  excellent  name,  who  is 
over  all,  God  blessed  for  ever. 

As  I  was  somewhat  unwell,  we  rested  on  third  day  with  our 
kind  friends  Thomas  and  Rowland  T.  Robinson;  and  feeling 
my  mind  now  clear  from  any  further  service  in  these  parts,  on 
fourth  day  we  turned  our  faces  homewards,  and  proceeded  back 
to  Shoram.  On  fifth  day  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  in  tha*. 
village,  principally  for  those  not  members  of  our  society.  Althoug!i 
the  people  came  together  in  a  negligent  manner  as  respected  the 
appointed  time,  yet  they  generally  behaved  orderly,  and  appeared 
to  give  good  attention  to  what  they  heard  ;  and  my  mouth  was 
opened  by  Him  who  opens  and  none  can  shut,  in  a  large  effect- 
ive testimony  to  the  truths  of  the  gospel ;  which  brought  a  pre- 
cious solemnity  over  the  assembly,  and  they  appeared  to  go 
away  satisfied,  and  we  left  them  with  the  answer  of  peace  in 
our  own  minds. 

The  next  day  we  proceeded  on  our  journey  to  Granville,  and 
from  thence  the  following  day  to  Queensbury.  On  first  day, 
the  25th  of  10th  month,  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  there  ; 


436  JOURNAL  OF  ' 

and  notice  being  given  to  the  neighbouring  inhabitants  of  our 
attendance,  they  came  in  until  the  house  was  filled,  and  a  num- 
ber had  to  stand  without  for  want  of  room ;  and  a  blessed  meet- 
ing we  had,  in  which  the  power  of  truth  ran  as  oil  over  the 
assembly,  tendering  and  contriting  many  minds,  and  to  the 
comfort  and  rejoicing  of  the  upright  in  heart. 

We  had  an  appointed  meeting  on  the  following  day  at  Mo- 
reau,  which  was  a  large  favoured  meeting.  From  thence  we 
proceeded  to  Saratoga,  and  lodged  with  our  kind  friend  Thomas 
Wilbur,  and  the  next  day  Thomas  accompanied  us  to  Pitts- 
town,  where  we  had  an  appointed  meeting  on  fourth  day.  This 
was  tridy  an  humbling  season^  in  which  truth  was  exalted  over 
all ;  great  brokenncss  and  contrition  of  spirit  were  manifested 
among  the  people,  and  we  were  edified  together  in  love,  which 
inspired  our  minds  with  thanksgiving  and  gratitude  for  the 
unmerited  favour. 

From  this  place  we  proceeded  to  Troy,  and  as  I  was  some- 
what unwell,  we  rested  the  followii>g  day  with  our  kind  friend 
Isaac  Merritt.  On  sixth  day  we  proceeded  on  our  jovuney  to 
the  neighbourhood  of  Hudson,  and  put  up  with  our  kind  friend 
Thomas  Wright  ;  and  seventh  day  being  very  rainy  and 
inclement  we  continued  here,  and  attended  Hudson  meeting  on 
first  day,  which  was  a  large  satisfactory  meeting. 

On  second  day  we  proceeded  on  our  journey  to  Stanford,  and 
lodged  with  our  kind  friend  John  Hull.  The  two  followuig 
days  we  attended  the  quarterly  meeting  at  Nine  Partners.  At 
this  place  there  is  a  very  large  body  of  Friends  united  together 
in  gospel  fellowship,  and  they  were  favoured  to  conduct  the  busi- 
ness of  the  quarterly  meeting  in  harmony  and  condescension. 
The  public  meeting  was  very  large.  It  was  attended  by  a  great 
number  who  were  not  in  membership  with  us,  and  who  behaved 
orderly,  and  it  was  indeed  a  very  solemn  edifying  season. 

After  the  close  of  this  meeting,  we  returned  that  evening  to 
Stanford,  in  order  to  attend  the  quarterly  meeting  at  that  place, 
which  opened  the  next  day  with  a  meeting  of  Ministers  and 
Filders.  1  attended  this,  and  the  following  day,  the  meeting  for 
disciphne.    A  large  number  of  the  neighbouring  inhabitants 


ELIAS  HICKS. 


437 


attended  this  meeting,  and  sat  with  Friends,  until  the  partition 
between  the  men  and  women  was  closed.  They  behaved  very- 
orderly,  and  a  precious  solemnity  spread  over  the  assembly,  and 
many  essential  doctrines  of  the  gospel  were  opened  to  the 
people  in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  truth  was  raised  into 
victory  over  all,  and  the  upright  in  heart  were  edified  and 
comforted.  The  meeting  of  Ministers  and  Elders  was  likewise 
a  precious  opportunity,  in  which  comfort  and  encouragement 
were  freely  administered  to  them. 

From  Stanford  we  proceeded  on  our  journey  to  Cornwall, 
crossing  the  Hudson  river  on  our  way.  We  arrived  here  on 
seventh  day  evening,  and  attended  their  meeting  on  first  day, 
the  8th  of  11th  month.  This  meeting  was  large,  and  a  truly 
baptizing  season,  in  which  many  hearts  were  humbled  and 
contrited,  and  truth  reigned  over  all ;  thanks  be  to  God,  who 
giveth  us  the  victory,  nothing  due  to  man. 

The  two  following  days  we  had  meetings  appointed  at  the 
Lower  and  Upper  Clove.  These  were  well  attended,  and,  I 
trust,  profitable  edifying  seasons  to  many  present.  They  were 
composed  of  people  of  various  professions,  conditions,  and  states; 
yet  all  appeared  to  be  brought  down  and  subjected  by  the 
solemnizing  intiuence  and  power  of  truth,  that  reigned  vic- 
toriously over  all.  Surely  it  was  the  Lord's  doing,  and 
it  was  marvellous  in  our  eyes.  These  meetings  closed  my 
labour  and  exercise  in  the  gospel,  to  Friends  and  others  in  the 
yearly  meetings  of  Philadelphia,  Baltimore,  Ohio,  Indiana,  and 
New- York,  as  expressed  in  a  certificate  of  unity  and  concurrence, 
given  me  by  the  monthly  meeting  of  Jericho,  and  quarterly 
meeting  of  Westbury. 

From  the  latter  meeting  we  proceeded  the  next  day  directly 
to  New- York,  where  we  arrived  on  fourth  day  evening.  The 
day  after  we  attended  Friends'  meeting  at  Hester-street,  it  being 
their  usual  meeting  day ;  and  a  marriage  being  accomplished 
at  the  close  of  it,  it  was  larger  than  usual,  as  many  of  the 
neighbouring  inhabitants  attended.  Way  opened  for  me  to 
declare  the  truth  among  them,  to  the  peace  of  my  own  mind,  and 
to  the  mutual  comfort  and  encouragement  of  the  upright  in  heart. 


438 


JOURNAL  OP  ELIAS  HICKS. 


I  rested  here  until  first  day,  and  attended  Friends'  meeting  at 
Rose-street  in  the  morning,  and  that  held  at  Hester-street  in  the 
afternoon.  They  were  both  very  large  solemn  meetings.  On 
second  day  evening  I  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Brooklyn, 
likewise  a  large  and  very  favoured  season.  In  all  of  these  meet- 
ings the  word  preached  had  free  course,  and  I  had,  in  the  openings 
of  truth,  to  declare  to  these  large  mixed  assemblages  many  things 
concerning  the  kingdom  of  God  ;  and  the  only  sure  way  by 
which  an  admittance  into  his  kingdom  of  peace  and  joy  may  be 
obtained  by  the  children  of  men. 

The  foregoing  meetings  were  times  of  favour,  and  as  a  seal 
from  the  hand  of  our  gracious  and  never-failing  Helper,  to  the 
labour  and  travail  which  he  has  led  me  into,  and  enabled  me 
to  perform,  for  the  promotion  of  his  great  and  noble  cause  of 
truth  and  righteousness  in  the  earth,  as  set  forth  in  the  foregoing 
account,  and  not  suffering  any  weapon  formed  against  me  to 
prosper.  "  This  is  the  heritage  of  the  servants  of  the  Lord,  and 
their  righteousness  is  of  me,  saith  the  Lord."  For  all  these 
unmerited  favours  and  mercies,  in  deep  humiliation  my  soul 
doth  magnify  the  Lord,  and  return  thanksgiving  and  glory  to 
his  great  and  excellent  name  ;  for  his  mercy  endureth  for  ever. 

On  third  day  we  proceeded  homeward,  and  attended  Westbuiy 
monthly  meeting  on  fourth  day,  on  our  way.  After  this  I  rode 
home,  and  found  my  familj^  well,  to  our  mutual  rejoicing ;  and 
we  greeted  each  other  with  thankful  hearts  for  the  unmerited 
favour. 

We  travelled  in  this  journey  nearly  fifteen  hundred  miles. 

ELIAS  HICKS. 

E.  H.  here  closed  his  Journal,  and  signed  his  name ;  after 
which  he  lived  a  little  more  than  two  months. 


APPENDIX. 


LETTER  TO  HUGH  JUDGE,  OF  OHIO. 

Jericho,  2d  mo.  Uth,  1830. 

Dear  Hugh, 

Thy  very  acceptable  letter  of  the  21st  ultimo,  Avas  duly 
received,  aad  read  with  interest,  teading  to  excite  renewed 
sympathetic,  and  mutual  fellow-feeling;  and  brought  to  my 
remembrance  the  cheering  salutation  of  the  blessed  Jesus,  our 
holy  and  perfect  pattern  and  example,  to  his  disciples,  viz: 
"  Be  of  good  cheer,  I  have  overcome  the  world."  By  which  he 
assured  his  disciples  that,  by  walking  in  the  same  pathway  of 
self-denial  and  the  cross  which  he  trod  to  blessedness,  they 
might  also  overcome  the  world ;  as  nothing  has  ever  enabled 
any  rational  being,  in  any  age  of  the  world,  to  overcome  the 
spirit  of  the  world,  which  lieth  in  wickedness,  but  the  cross  of 
Christ. 

Some  may  query,  what  is  the  cross  of  Christ  ?  To  these  I 
answer,  it  is  the  perfect  law  of  God  written  on  the  tablet  of  the 
heart,  and  in  the  heart  of  every  rational  creature,  in  such  indeli 
ble  characters  that  all  the  power  of  mortals  cannot  erase  nor 
obliterate.  Neither  is  there  any  power  or  means  given  or  dis- 
pensed to  the  children  of  men,  but  this  inward  law  and  light  .by 
which  the  true  and  saving  knowledge  of  God  can  be  obtained. 
And  by  this  inward  law  and  light,  all  will  be  either  justified  or 
condemned,  and  all  be  made  to  know  God  for  themselves,  and 
be  left  without  excuse,  agreeably  to  the  prophecy  of  Jeremiah, 
and  the  corroborating  testimony  of  Jesus  in  his  last  counsel  and 
command  to  his  disciples,  not  to  depart  from  Jerusalem  until  they 
should  receive  power  from  on  high ;  assuring  them  that  they 
should  receive  power,  when  they  had  received  the  pouring  forth 


440 


APPRNDIX. 


of  the  spirit  upon  them,  which  would  quahfy  them  to  bear  witness 
of  him  in  Judea,  Jerusalem,  Samaria,  and  to  the  uttermost  part9 
of -the  earth ;  which  was  verified  in  a  marvellous  manner  on  the 
day  of  Pentecost,  when  thousands  were  converted  to  the  Chris- 
tian faith  in  one  day.    By  which  it  is  evident,  that  nothing  but 
this  inward  light  and  law,  as  it  is  heeded  and  obeyed,  ever  did, 
or  ever  can  make  a  true  and  real  Christiaa  and  child  of  God. 
And  until  the  professors  of  Christianity  agree  to  lay  aside  all 
their  non-essentials  in  religion,  and  rally  to  this  vinchangeable 
foundation  and  standard  of  truth,  wars  and  fightings,  confusion 
and  error  will  prevail,  and  the  angelic  song  cannot  be  heard  in 
our  land,  that  of "  glory  to  God  in  the  highest,  and  on  earth 
peace  and  good  will  to  men."    But  when  all  nations  are  made 
willing  to  make  this  inward  law  and  light,  the  rule  and  stand- 
ard of  all  their  faith  and  works,  then  we  shall  be  brought  to 
know  and  believe  alike,  that  there  is  but  one  Lord,  one  faith, 
and  but  one  baptism  ;  one  God  and  Father,  that  is  above  all, 
through  all,  and  in  all ;  and  then  will  aU  those  glorious  and  • 
consoling  prophecies,  recorded  in  the  scriptures  of  tmth  be  ful- 
filled.   Isaiah  ii.  4,  "  He,"  tlie  Lord,  "  shall  judge  among  the 
nations,  and  rebuke  many  people:  and  they  shall  beat  their 
swords  into  ploughshares  and  their  spears  into  pnining  hooks: 
nation  shall  not  lift  up  sword  against  nation  ;  neither  shall  they 
learn  war  any  more."    Isaiah  xi.    "  The  wolf  also  shall  dwell 
with  the  lamb,  and  the  leopard  shall  lie  down  with  the  kid ; 
and  the  calf,  and  the  young  lion,  and  the  failing  together ;  and 
a  little  child  shall  lead  them.    And  the  cow  and  the  bear  shall 
feed  ;  their  young  ones  shall  he  down  together ;  and  the  lion 
shall  eat  straw  like  the  ox.    And  the  sucking  child  shall  play 
on  the  hole  of  the  asp,  and  the  weaned  child  put  his  hand  on 
the  cockatrice's  den.    They  shall  not  hurt  nor  destroy  in  all 
my  holy  movmtain  :  for  the  earth,"  that  is  our  earthly  taberna- 
cles, "  shall  be  full  of  the  knowledge  of  the  Lord,  as  the  watei-s 
cover  the  sea." 

These  scripture  testimonies  give  a  true  and  correct  description 
of  the  gospel  state,  and  no  rational  being  can  be  a  real  Christian 
and  true  disciple  of  Christ,  until  he  comes  to  know  all  these 


APPENDIX. 


441 


things  verified  in  his  own  expeiience,as  every  man  and  woman  has 
more  or  less  of  all  those  different  animal  propensities  and  passions 
in  their  nature ;  and  they  predominate  and  bear  rule,  and  are 
the  "^source  and  fountain  from  whence  all  wars,  and  every  evil 
work  proceed,  and  will  continue  as  long  as  man  remains  in  his 
first  nature,  and  is  governed  by  his  animal  spirit  and  propensities, 
which  constitute  the  natural  man,  which  Paul  tells  us  "  receiveth 
not  the  things  of  the  spirit  of  God,  for  they  are  foolishness  unto 
him,  neither  can  he  know  them,  because  they  are  spiritually  dis- 
cerned." This  corroborates  the  declaration  of  Jesus  to  Nicodemus, 
"  that,  except  a  man  be  born  again,  he  cannot  see  the  kingdom 
of  God  ;"  for  "  that  which  is  bom  of  the  flesh  is  flesh,  and  that 
which  is  born  of  the  spirit  is  spirit."  Here  Jesus  assures  us, 
beyond  all  doubt,  that  nothing  but  spirit  can  either  see  or  enter 
into  the  kingdom  of  God  ;  and  this  confirms  Paul's  doctrine,  that 
"  as  many  as  are  led  by  the  spirit  of  God  are  the  sons  of  God," 
and  "joint  heirs  with  Christ."  And  Jesus  assures  us,  by  his 
declaration  to  his  disciples,  John  xiv.  10,  17,  "  If  ye  love  me,  keep 
my  commandments ;  and  I  will  pray  the  Father,  and  he  shall 
give  you  another  comforter,  that  he  may  abide  with  you  for  ever, 
even  the  spirit  of  truth,  whom  the  world  cannot  receive ;"  that  is, 
pien  and  women  in  their  natural  state,  who  have  not  given  up 
to  be  led  by  this  spirit  of  truth,  that  leads  and  guides  into  all 
truth  ;  "  because  they  see  him  not,  neither  do  they  know  him, 
but  ye  know  him,  for  he  dvvelleth  with  you,  and  shall  be  in 
you."  And  as  these  give  up  to  be  wholly  led  and  guided  by  liim, 
the  new  birth  is  brought  forth  in  them,  and  they  witness  the 
truth  of  another  testimony  of  Paul's,  even  that  of  being  created 
anew  in  Christ  Jesus  unto'  good  .works,  which  God  had  fore- 
ordained that  all  his  new-born  children  should  walk  in  them, 
and  tliereby  show  forth  by  their  fruits  and  good  works,  that  they 
were  truly  the  children  of  God,  born  of  his  spirit,  and  taught  of 
him;  agreeably  to  the  testimony  of  the  prophet,  that  "the  children 
of  the  Lord  are  all  taught  of  the  Lord,  and  in  righteousness  they 
are  established,  and  great  is  the  peace  of  his  children."  And 
nothing  can  make  them  afraid  that  man  can  do  unto  them  ;  as 
saith  the  prophet  in  his  appeal  to  Jehovah,  "  Thou  wilt  keep  hiui 

50 


442 


APPENDIX. 


in  perfect  peace,  whose  mind  is  staid  on  thee,  because  he  trusteth 
in  thee."  Therefore,  let  every  one  that  loves  the  tmth,  for  God 
is  truth,''trust  in  the  Lord  for  ever,  for  in  the  Lord  Jehovah  there 
is  everlasting  strength." 

I  writ6  these  things  to  thee,  not  as  though  thou  didst  not  know 
them,  but  as  a  witness  to  thy  experience,  as  "  two  are  better  than 
one,  and  a  threefold  cord  is  not  quickly  broken." 

I  will  now  draw  to  a  close,  with  just  adding,  for  thy  encou- 
ragement, be  of  good  cheer,  for  no  new  thing  has  happened  to 
us  ;  for  it  has  ever  been  tlie  lot  of  the  righteous  to  pass  through 
many  trials  and  tribulations,  in  their  passage  to  that  glorious, 
everlasting,  peaceful,  and  happy  abode,  where  all  sori-ow  and 
sigiiing  come  to  an  end — the  value  of  which  is  above  all  price ; 
for  when  we  have  given  all  that  we  have  and  can  give,  and 
suffered  all  that  we  can  suffer,  it  is  still  infinitely  below  its  real 
value.  And  if  we  are  favoured  to  gain  an  inheritance  in  that 
blissful  and  peaceful  abode,  "  where  the  wicked  cease  from  trou- 
bling, and  the  weary  are  at  rest,"  we  must  ascribe  it  all  to  the 
unmerited  mercy  and  loving-kindness  of  our  heavenly  Father, 
who  remains  to  be  God  over  all,  blessed  for  ever. 

I  will  now  conclude  ;  and  in  the  fulness  of  brotherly  love  to 
thee  and  thine,  in  which  my  family  unite,  subscribe  thy  affection- 
ate Mend, 

ELIAS  HICKS. 

To  Hugh  Judge. 

Please  present  my  love  to  all  my  friends,  as  way  opens. 

The  writing  of  the  preceding  letter  was  the  last  act  in  the  hfe 
of  this  eminent  individual,  and  the  attentive  reader  will  not  fail 
to  regard  it  as  an  act  of  pecuhar  interest.  It  was  as  a  seal  to 
the  labours  of  a  long  life,  and  evinced  the  abiding  and  lively 
efficacy  of  that  internal  principle  which  he  had  uniformly  sought 
as  his  director  and  preserver.  But  the  work  of  this  faithful  ser- 
vant was  now  accomplished  ;  "  the  silver  cord  was  loosed,"  and 
that  spirit  which  had  been  so  diligently  active  in  the  service  of 
its  Divine  Master,  was  now  to  rest  from  its  labours,  and  to  reap 


APPENDIX. 


443 


its  reward.  Just  when  he  had  finished  the  letter  alluded  to,  he 
was  attacked  with  a  paralytic  affection,  under  the  effects  of  which 
he  became  gradually  weaker ;  but  his  mind  remained  established 
in  great  peace  and  serenity,  and  on  the  27th  of  2d  month,  1830, 
he  calmly  expired,  aged  nearly  eighty-two  years. 

Of  the  character  of  this  extraordinary  man,  it  is  not  necessary 
now  to  speak.  The  preceding  pages  describe  the  nature  of  his 
engagements ;  and  an  estimate  may  thence  be  formed,  of  the 
fervency  of  his  spirit,  and  the  brightness  of  his  example.  In 
his  general  deportment,  and  in  the  expression  of  his  countenance, 
there  was  a  remarkable  imion  of  gentleness  and'dignity,  indi- 
cating the  habitual  benevolence  and  solemnity  of  his  feelings  ; 
and  his  pubhc  communications  were  accompanied  with  a  power 
and  an  authority  which  demonstrated  the  purity  of  the  source 
from  whence  they  were  derived.  The  promotion  of  spiritual 
hohness  and  practical  righteousness  in  the  earth,  were  the  objects 
of  his  constant  solicitude  ;  and  he  endeavoined,  through  divine 
assistance,  to  exemplify  in  his  own  daily  experience,  the  com- 
prehensive command  of  the  prophet,  "  To  do  justly,  to  love 
mercy,  and  to  walk  humbly  with  thy  God." 


444 


APPENDIX. 


THE  MEMORIAL  OF  JERICHO  MONTHLY  MEETING  OP 
FRIENDS  CONCERNING  OUR  ANCIENT  FRIEND  ELIAS 
HICKS. 

We  believe  the  example  exhibited  in  the  life  and  religious 
exercise  of  this  our  Ijeloved  Friend,  is  eminently  calculated  to 
set  forth  the  efficacy  and  sufficiency  of  that  divine  grace,  which, 
when  believed  in  and  obeyed,  bringeth  salvation. 

He  was  born  in  the  tow^ft  of  Hempstead,  Queens  county, 
Long  Island,  state  of  New- York,  the  19th  day  of  the  3d  month, 
1748.  His  parents'  names  were  John  and  Martha  Hicks.  At 
the  age  of  seventeen  he  Avas  placed  as  an  apprentice  to  learn  the 
trade  of  a  carpenter  ;  on  the  expiration  of  his  term,  he  returned 
to  his  father,  with  whom  he  lived  imtilthe  time  of  his  marriage, 
which  took  place  about  the  twenty-third  year  of  his  age,  to  Jemi- 
ma, daughter  of  Jonathan  and  Elizabeth  Seaman,  of  Jericho,  in 
said  county,  where  he  resided  the  remainder  of  his  life. 

From  his  o^vn  account  we  learn,  that  when  very  young,  he 
was  favoured  with  clear  and  powerful  impressions  of  divine 
grace  operating  on  his  mind  as  a  reprover  for  evil,  which  not 
duly  regarding,  and  being  naturally  of  a  lively  and  active  dis- 
position, he  associated  with  those  who  indulged  in  the  vanities 
and  amusements  too  common  in  the  world,  though  mostly  in 
things  deemed  innocent  by  the  generality  of  mankind.  But  the 
gift  of  divine  grace,  which  was  so  early  manifested,  did  not  for- 
sake him,  though  he  oft eli  strove  to  stifle  its  convictions,  but 
followed  him  in  judgment  and  in  mercy,  until  a  willingness 
was  wrought  in  him  to  give  up  all  to  follow  Christ,  in  the 
regeneration.  On  one  occasion,  when  preparing  to  join  in  the 
dance,  and  surrounded  by  his  jovial  companions,  the  pure  witness 
rose  eo  powerfidly  in  his  mind,  and  so  clearly  set  before  him  the 
evil  tendency  of  the  course  he  was  pursuing,  that  he  reasoned 
not  with  flesh  and  blood,  but  gave  up  to  the  heavenly  vision, 
and  in  deep  contrition  and  prostration  of  soul,  entered  into  cove- 


APPENDIX. 


445 


nant  with  the  God  of  his  Ufe,  that  if  he  would  be  pleased  to 
furnish  him  with  strength,  he  would  endeavour  not  to  be  again 
found  in  the  hlte  disobedience ;  which  covenant,  through  mercy, 
he  was  favoured  to  keep  inviolate.  Thus,  submitting  to  the  puri- 
fying operation  of  the.  Holy  Ghost  and  fire,  he  was,  in  due  time, 
qualified  and  called  to  declare  to  others  what  God  had  done  fof 
his  soul ;  under  tbe  divine  anointing,  he  was  enabled  to  unfolc 
the  truths  of  the  gospel,  in  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit  an^ 
with  power.  And,  through  a  faithful  obedience  to  that  which 
had  begun  the  good  work  in  him,  he  became  an  eminent  in- 
stnunent  in  the  Lord's  hand,  for  the  promotion  of  truth  and 
righteousness  in  the  earth. 

He  first  appeared  in  the  ministry,  about  the  twenty-seventh 
year  of  his  age,  and  from  this  period,  his  time  and  talents  were 
devoted  to  the  cause  of  his  Divine  Master,  labouring  diligently 
for  its  advancement,  not  only  at  home,  and  in  his  own  neigh- 
bourhood, but  in  most  parts  of  this  continent  where  there  are 
settlements  of  Friends,  and  also,  in  many  places  amongst  those 
not  of  our  society.    In  declaring  what  he  believed  to  be  the 
counsel  of  God,  he  was  bold  and  fearless,  and  his  ministry, 
though  unadorned  with  the  embellishments  of  himian  learning, 
was  clear  and  powerful.    In  argument  he  was  strong  and  con- 
vincing, and  his  appeals  to  the  experience  and  convictions  of 
his  hearers,  were  striking  and  appropriate.    He  saw,  and  deeply 
lamented  the  great  departme  of  many  in  the  society  of  Friends, 
from  that  plainness  and  simplicity,  and  that  godly  sincerity, 
wliich  characterized  it  in  the  beginning.    Hence  he  felt  himself 
called  Tipon,  under  the  influence  of  the  love  of  the  gospel,  to 
admonish  his  brethren  in  religious  profession,  to  rally  to  the 
ancient  standard,  the  light  of  truth  manifested  in  the  heart,«tind 
to  follow  no  man  any  further,  than  he  should  be  found  a  follower 
of  Christ.    He  assailed  tlie  strong  holds  of  superstition  and 
bigotry  with  great  boldness,  which  sometimes  alarmed  the  timid, 
and  roused  the  piejudiccs  of  others.    Yet  to  the  candid  inquirer 
and  sincere  seeker  after  tiaith,  he  breathed  the  language  of 
encouragement,  of  consolation  and  of  comfort.    His  great  and 
primary  concern  was  to  draw  the  minds  of  the  people  to  prac- 


446 


APPENDIX. 


tical  righteousness — from  all  out^^'ard  dependance  to  the  sure 
foundation,  the  rock  of  ages,  the  spirit  of  truth,  the  comforter, 
"  Christ  within,  the  hope  of  glory."  He  generally  corroborated 
the  doctrines  which  he  preached,  by  appropriate  references  to  the 
testimonies  and  experience  of  those  who  have  gone  before  us, 
as  recorded  in  the  scriptures  of  truth.  Through  the  efficacy  of 
that  power  which  enabled  him  to  say,  "  By  the  grace  of  God,  I 
am  what  I  am,"  many  were  convinced  of  the  truth,  through  his 
ministry. 

So  full  and  pointed  was  his  testimony  against  a  hireling 
ministry,  which  lie  held  to  be,  not  only  in  direct  violation  of  the 
great  gospel  precept  "  Freely  ye  have  received,  freely  give,"  but 
fraught  with  incalculable  injury  to  the  best  interests  of  mankind, 
that  he  sometimes  gave  offence  to  those,  whose  minds  were 
strongly  biased  in  its  favour.  Yet  such  was  the  general  kind- 
ness and  benevolence  of  his  character,  that  he  did  not  Avillingly 
give  offence  to  any.  While  he  condemned  the  practice,  he  was 
kind  and  charitable  to  those,  who,  through  the  inflvience  of 
education  and  early  prejudice,  differed  from  him  on  this  subject. 
Such ^ was  his  concern  that  his  examples  should  comport  with 
his  testimony,  that  he  was  scrupulously  careful  to  defray  his 
own  expenses  when  travelling  as  a  minister. 

When  his  meetings  were  attended  by  a  large  concourse  of 
persons  of  various  denominations,  the  solemnity  and  stillness  that 
prevailed,  were  often  very  remarkable,  reminding  us  of  the  testi- 
mony of  primitive  Friends,  that  tlie  power  accompanying  their 
gospel  labours  so  overshadowed  the  assemblies,  that  truth  reigned 
over  all.  Being  deeply  sensible  of  his  own  inability  to  promote 
the  cause  of  truth  and  righteousness,  without  divine  aid,  he 
was  .engaged  to  dwell  near  the  fountain  of  light  and  hfe,  and 
to  minister  as  this  opened  and  gave  ability.  He  was  indeed 
an  example  of  Christian  humihty,  and  eminently  preserved  from 
being  elated  by  the  applause  of  men,  or  depressed  by  their  cen- 
sure. Many  were  the  exercises  which  he  felt  on  account  of  the 
evils  which  abound  in  the  world,  and  the  oppressed  condition  of 
the  African  race  excited  his  tenderest  sympathy.  Their  cause 
engaged  his  earnest  solicitude  for  the  greater  part  of  his  life,  and 


APPENDIX. 


447 


he  was  often  led  feelingly  and  powerfully  to  advocate  it.  We 
believe  that  many  were  convinced,  through  his  labours,  of  the 
cruelty  and  injustice  of  holding  them  in  bondage.  He  bore  for 
many  years  a  faithful  testimony  against  slavery,  by  carefully 
abstaining  from  the  use  of  articles  which  he  believed  to  be  pro- 
duced by  the  labour  of  slaves.  When  at  home,  and  not  engaged 
in  services  more  strictly  of  a  religious  character,  he  laboured  dili- 
gently with  his  own  hands,  beheving  it  the  duty  of  all  to 
be  usefully  employed  in  obtaining  the  necessaries  of  life ;  and 
when  acquired,  he  acted  as  a  steward  under  the  direction  of  the 
bountiful  Giver,  being  restrained  from  using  them  for  selfish  grati- 
fication. In  the  various  relations  of  life,  he  was  a  bright  example, 
worthy  of  imitation  :  he  was  an  affectionate  husband ;  and  as  a 
father  and  guardian,  his  concern  for  the  religious  and  moral 
education  of  his  children,  and  those  placed  under  his  care,  was 
very  great,  that  they  might  be  brought  up  in  the  fear  and  admo- 
nition of  the  Lord.  For  these  ends  he  exercised  the  authority 
of  a  parent  with  firmness,  but  in  much  tenderness  and  love.  His 
tender  sympathy  was  excited  for  the  poor,  to  whom  he  was  a 
kind? and  liljeral  friend,  often  svipplying  their  necessities.  It  may 
be  truly  said  of  him,  that  he  was  a  man  fearing  God  and  hating 
covetousness.  He  was  a  peace-maker,  endeavouring,  both  by 
precept  and  example,  to  promote  harmony  in  his  neighbourhood; 
and  in  this  respect  he  was  very  useful,  his  Christian  deportment 
having  gained  the  confidence  and  affection  of  his  neighbours. 
He  was  very  diligent  in  the  attendartee  of  religious  meetings, 
and  often  led  to  encourage  others,  assuring  them,  from  his  own 
experiencfe,  that  none  could  expect  to  increase  in  the  divine  life, 
until  they  considered  that  important  duty  paramount  to  temporal 
concerns :  he  was  also  conspicuously  useful  in  supporting  the 
discipline  of  the  society. 

At  a  very  advanced  age  he  continued  to  labour  in  the  Lord's 
vineyard,  with  the  same  fervent  zeal,  the  same  dedication  of 
heart,  for  which  Ke  had- been  so  erninently  distinguished  in  the 
earher  stages  of  his  life ;  and  in  the  exercise  of  his  gift  in  the 
ministry,  he  was  as  lively,  clear,  and  cogent,  as  at  any  former 
period.    Having  been  long  taught  in  the  school  of  Clu-ist,  and 


448 


APPENDIX. 


being  deeply  experienced  in  the  things  which  concern  our  eternal' 
well-being,  he  was  well  qualified  to  administer  counsel  and 
encouragement  to  others  ;  and  was  frequently  led,  feelingly  and 
forcibly,  to  impress  upon  the  minds  of  the  rising  generation,  the 
importance  and  necessity  of  early  attention  to  the  inward  dis- 
coveries of  divine  hght ;  cautioning  them  not  to  rest  in  the  tra- 
dition of  their  fathers,  but  to  walk  by  the  same  rule,  and  to  mind 
the  same  thing,  which  has  led  the  righteous  in  all  ages  safely 
through  time  ;  nor  to  depend  upon  the  teachings  of  men,  for  that 
knowledge  which  brings  life  and  immortality  to  light  in  the  soul ; 
declaring  that  faithfulness  and  obedience  to  the  influence  of 
divine  grace  in  their  own  hearts,  could  only  qualify  them  to 
advance  the  standard  of  truth  and  righteousness  in  the  earth. 
His  dedication  to  the  law  of  the  spirit  of  life  in  Christ  Jesus,  his 
firmness  in  the  support  of  those  teslimpnies  which  he  felt  himself 
called  upon  to  maintain,  and  his  plainness  in  reproving  unfaith- 
fulness in  others,  and  bearing  testimony  against  every  appearance 
of  evil,  gave  offence  to  some ;  yet  none  of  these  things  moved 
him,  neither  coimted  he  his  life  dear  to  himself,  so  that  he  might 
finish  his  course  with  joy,  and  the  ministry  he  had  received;  to 
testify  the  gospel  of  the  grace  of  God ;  and  we  are  persuaded 
that  his  feet  were  established  upon  that  rock,  against  which  the 
powers  of  darkness  shall  never  be  able  to  prevail.  He  Avas 
favoured,  in  times  of  the  greatest  trial,  to  experience  the  truth  of 
the  prophetic  declaration,  "  Thou  wilt  keep  him  in  perfect  peace, 
whose  mind  is  stayed  on.tihee,  because  he  trusteth  in  thee." 

He  was  favoured  with  a  good  constitution,  and  in  the  decline 
of  life,  was  still  actively  engaged  in  the  concerns  of  society,  and 
industriously  employed  in  his  temporal  avocations. 

His  mental  powers  continued  strong  and  vigorous  to  the  end 
of  his  labours.  His  comprehensive  and  energetic  mind  was 
apparently  hwt  very  little  impaired  by  the  revolution  of  more 
than  fourscore  years.  Within  the  last  two  years  of  his  life,  he 
travelled  extensively  in  the  work  of  the  ministry. 

When  he  was  eighty  years  of  age,  he  opened  in  this  monthly 
meeting  a  concern  to  pay  a  religious  visit  to  Friends  and  others 
in  some  parts  of  the  yearly  meetings  of  New- York,  Philadelphia, 


APPENDIX. 


449 


Baltimore,  Virginia,  Ohio,  and  Indiana.  He  obtained  a  certificate 
of  unity  and  concurrence  from  this  monthly  meeting-,  endorsed 
by  Westbury  quarterly  meeting.  In  this  visit  he  experienced 
many  deep  probations  on  account  of  the  unsettled  state  of  society. 
"  For  the  divisions  of  Reuben,  there  were  great  searchings  of 
heart."  Yet  he  was  enabled  to  accomplish  his  visit  to  the 
southern  and  western  yearly  meetings,  agreeably  to  his  prospect. 
Shortly  after  his  return  from  this  journey,  he  met  mth  a  severe 
affliction  in  the  loss  of  his  beloved  companion,  with  whom  he 
had  lived  in  near  union  and  affection  for  fifty-eight  years. 

In  tho  summer  of  1829,  in  pursuance  of  his  prospect  as  before 
mentioned,  he  visited  most  of  the  meedngs  of  Friends  in  the 
northern  and  western  parts  of  our  yearly  meeting.  His  gospel 
labours,  during  these  arduous  and  extensive  visits,  were  produc- 
tive of  satisfaction  and  peace  to  his  own  mind,  and  were  peculiarly 
seasonable  and  acceptable  to  his  friends,  as  appears  by  numerous 
certificates  of  near  vmity,  which  he  produced  to  this  meeting  on 
his  return  home  ;  after  which,  he  attended  all  the  meetings  of 
Friends  in  the  city  of  New- York,  and  on  this  island,  very  much 
to  their  satisfaction.  In  these  last  visits,  as  heretofore,  his  gospel 
labours  were  remarkably  clear  and  powerful,  and  we  trust 
are  profitably  remembered  by  many.  He  seemed  renewedly 
concerned  on  account  of  the  deviations  from  that  plainness  and 
simplicity  into  which  the  truth  would  lead ;  and  expressed  the 
comfort  it  would  be  to  him  to  see  a  reformation  in  these  respects. 

On  first  day  morning,  the  14th  of  2d  month  last,  he  was 
engaged  in  his  room,  writing  to  a  friend,  until  a  little  after  ten 
o'clock,  when  he  returned  to  that  occupied  by  the  family,  appa- 
rently just  attacked  by  a  paralytic  affection,  which  nearly  deprived 
him  of  the  use  of  his  right  side,  and  of  the  power  of  speech.  Being 
assisted  to  a  chair  near  the  fire,  he  manifested  by  signs,  that  tlie 
letter  which  he  had  just  finished,  and  which  had  been  dropped 
by  the  way,  should  be  taken  care  of;  and  on  its  being  brought 
to  him,  appeared  satisfied,  and  manifested  a  desire  that  all  should 
sit  dov/n  and  be  still,  seemingly  sensible  that  his  labours  were 
brought  to  a  close,  and  only  desirous  of  quietly  waiting  the  final 
change.    The  solemn  composure  at  this  tune  manifest  in  his 


450  APPENDIX. 

* 

countenance,  was  very  impressive,  indicating  that  he  was  sensi- 
ble the  time  of  his  departure  was  at  hand,  and  that  the  prospect 
of  death  brought  no  terrors  with  it.  During  his  last  illness,  his 
mental  faculties  were  occasionally  obscured,  yet  he  was  at  times 
enabled  to  give  satisfactory  evidence  to  those  around  him,  that 
all  was  well,  and  that  he  felt  nothing  in  his  way. 

EQs  dependance  had  long  been  upon  that  arm  of  power  alone, 
which  supported  him  under  every  probation,  and  near  the  con- 
clusion of  the  letter  above  alluded  to,  he  thus  expressed  himself: 
"  And  if  we  are  favoiured  to  gain  an  inheritance  in  that  blissful 
and  peaceful  abode,  where  the  wicked  cease  from  troubling,  and 
the  weary  are  at  rest.  wp.  m«ot  as^^iibe  it  all  to  the  unmerited 
mercy  anJ  lovnng  kindness  of  our  heavenly  Father,  who  remains 
to  be  God  over  all,  blessed  for  ever."  He  continued  gradually  to 
dechne  until  the  evening  of  the  27th,  when  he  quietly  passed 
from  the  trials  of  time,  we  doubt  not,  to  receive  the  reward  of 
the  righteoas. 

His  funeral  took  place  on  fourth  day,  the  3d  of  3d  month.  It 
was  attended  by  a  large  concourse  of  Friends  and  others,  and  a 
solid  meeting  was  held  on  the  occasion ;  after  which,  his  remains 
were  interred  in  Friends'  burial  ground  at  this  place. 

Signed  by  direction  and  on  behalf  of  Jericho  Monthly  Meeting, 
held  4th  month, jl5th,  1830. 

WILLET  ROBBINS,  )  ^,  , 
ABIGAIL  HICKS,      \  Clerics. 


At  Westbury  Quarterly  Meetmg,  held  at  Westbury,  the  22d 
of  4th  month,  1830, 

A  memorial  of  Jericho  Monthly  Meeting,  concerning  our  late 
beloved  friend  Ehas  Hicks,  was  produced  and  read,  and  being 
satisfactory  to  the  meeting,  was  approved,  directed  to  be  endorsed, 
and  fonvarded  to  the  Meeting  for  Sufferings. 
Signed  on  behalf  of  the  meeting  by 

STEPHEN  UNDERBILL,  1  ^,  , 
SARAH  COCK,  s 


APPENDIX. 


451 


At  a  Meeting  for  Suflferings  held  in  New- York,  5th  month, 
26th,  1830, 

The  memorial  from  Jericho  Monthly  Meeting,  endorsed  by 
the  Quarterly  Meeting  of  Westbury,  concerning  our  beloved 
friend  Ehas  Hicks,  deceased,  being  deliberately  attended  to,  was 
approved  and  directed  to  the  Yearly  Meeting. 

Extract  from  minutes  of  said  meeting. 

JOHN  BARROW,  Clerk. 


At  the  Yearly  Meeting  of  New- York,  held  by  adjournments, 
from  the  24th  of  the  5th  month,  to  the  28th  of  the  same  inclusive, 
1830, 

A  testimony  of  Jericho  Monthly  Meeting,  endorsed  by  West- 
bury  Quarterly  Meeting,  and  approved  by  the  Meeting  for  Suf- 
ferings, concerning  our  ancient  beloved  friend  Ehas  Hicks,  was 
read  and  approved.  Much  solicitude  was  felt  and  expressed  that 
it  may,  with  the  remembrance  of  his  exemplary  life,  encourage 
us  to  walk  by  the  same  rule,  and  to  mind  the  same  thing,  which 
enabled  him  to  become  so  eminently  useful  in  his  day  and 
generation. 

SAMUEL  MOTT,        )  ^,  , 
ANN  M.  COMSTOCK,  S  ^^^^'^^^ 


Pnncetc 

1  Theoiog'f'i  Seir 

1  1012  01034 

0240 

